Geraint Thomas plays down Tour Down Under ambitions - "I’ve been on antibiotics and I’ve missed a few days training"

INEOS Grenadiers have travelled to Australia with several possible contenders for the Tour Down Under, but Geraint Thomas is certainly not one of them. The veteran has been sick and isn't positive on his chances of eyeing the GC.

“Just before Christmas I had a bit of an infection. I thought I was over it but it came back a bit. I’ve been on antibiotics and I’ve missed a few days training," Thomas revealed in an interview with Cyclingnews. "It sucks, when it’s nice and sunny in Australia and you’re sat inside."

Eyeing the Giro d'Italia, Thomas has decided to travel to Australia to start his 2023 campaign, his last in the peloton. He will be playing a supportive role, and several riders will be within a chance of the win: "We’ve got three potential winners or riders who can be up there in Ethan [Hayter], Magnus [Sheffield] and Plappy [Luke Plapp]. We’re looking forward to that.”

Whilst he may not take part in the GC fight, INEOS will be able to rely on national champion Luke Plapp, Ethan Hayter and Magnus Sheffield. “This race has come down to seconds before and so the prologue will be crucial. It mixes the racing up a bit and is a great way to start this race. It’ll be really interesting," the Welshman commented.

“I just want to get stuck in and enjoy the racing. It’s nice being back out here. As Stuey (Stuart O'Grady, ed.) said, there are some great stages to get stuck into. With the team we’ve got, I’m super excited to be racing with them," he continued.

“I still enjoy it all as much as ever. Having all these young guys on the team helps. They’re super keen and you thrive off their energy. I still love riding my bike and I still love racing and preparing for it all. Whenever you’re up front in races, when you’re competitive, whether you win or not, is a great feeling. I’m all good," Thomas concluded.