Riders to watch: Tour will show if Wout Van Aert is the new Sean Kelly

Peter Sagan

Though he hasn’t been as prolific as previous years, Sagan remains one of the most entertaining and enigmatic riders the sport. His track record and recent form at the Tour du Suisse put him as strong favourite for the Green jersey.

Egan Bernal

Billed as the ‘co-leader’ of Team Ineos alongside Geraint Thomas, Bernal will enjoy all the perks of leadership without the pressure that will follow Thomas. ernal may have the beating of the Welshman in the high mountains which could trigger a few headaches in the Team Ineos camp.

Alejandro Valverde

At 39, Valverde’s best years should be behind him. Rather than slowing down, the World Champion has appeared to improve with age and his recent victory in the Spanish Championships are a sign he means business. Expect at least a stage victory from the man they call El Bala (the bullet).

Julian Alaphilippe

French fan favourite Alaphilippe lit the race up last year and came away with two stage wins and the polka dot jersey. His attacking style and panache keep him as the favourite to defend that jersey.

Wout Van Aert

The man being touted as the next Sean Kelly. At just 24, Wout Van Aert has won just about everything in the cyclocross discipline and is now turning his attention to road cycling. He can sprint, time trial and ride the flat with the best. His climbing is yet to be truly tested but the Tour will be a good indicator.