"Secrets of this first stage, I'll keep those to myself" - Julian Alaphilippe eyes opening day of Tour de France and yellow jersey

The first stage of the Tour de France is very hard, unusually difficult in fact. The last time there was a hilly start to the Tour Julian Alaphilippe took the first yellow jersey, and as he returns to good form he hopes to be doing the same this Saturday.

"I'm really looking forward to starting the Tour, of course," Alaphilippe told In de Leiderstrui in Bilbao, where all teams find themselves already for this afternoon's race presentation. "I don't think about last year anymore, but I'm just happy to be back. I want to enjoy the race. There's a certain atmosphere that can only be found in the Tour."

The first day can see GC action with the likes of Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar if they find themselves at a very high level, however on a normal day the puncheurs will have good chances. After his win and strong performance at the Criterium du Dauphiné there are good indicators for the former World Champion, and the type of climbs and uphill sprint the riders will find are ideal for him. This could make for an ideal return to the top of the cycling world.

"We have done recon for the first stage, which was my second time there, after going once before during the high-altitude training camp. I know the route well and I am focused on my performance, but of course I will need to have a good day as well. As for the secrets of this first stage, I'll keep those to myself," he concludes.