Jonas Vingegaard on why he skipped Strade Bianche debut: "I would only be home for one day during two months"

Tomorrow will be the day Jonas Vingegaard returns to competition. The two-time Tour de France champion and second man of last year's Vuelta a Espana will be back to defend his title at Spanish four-day stage race, the Gran Camiño.

"I really enjoyed the race in Spain last year. At the time, I immediately won three stages and the final classification at the start of the season. It's always nice to return as the reigning winner. The goal for this year is clear; we are going to try to defend my title," says determined Vingegaard on his team's website.

Regarding his next plans, the Dane was originally due to start at Strade Bianche, however that's not the case anymore. "The reason why I choose the Tirreno over Paris-Nice is that originally I was also going to ride the Strade Bianche. However, we cancelled that race because otherwise I would only be home for one day during two months. That would be a bit much. Or rather, too little time with my family," he laughs.

"Tour is again the main goal. We are going to do everything so that I can start there in the best possible shape. So far my winter has been smooth, without any setbacks. I have just trained for two weeks on Mount Teide and my condition is where I want to be. I'm looking forward to racing for the first time."