The Dauphine is traditionally considered the precious preview of the Tour de France and this year can count on a group of highly respected riders, including Pogacar, Vingegaard, and Evenepoel.

Remco Evenepoel begins with confidence the three-way battle with Pogačar and Vingegaard at the Dauphine, with his main objective being to physically improve and win the time trial stage.

"Weight, health, form: everything has improved compared to a year ago - Evenepoel said in a press conference -. I am convinced that I can get closer to Tadej and Jonas at the Tour compared to 2024".

From tomorrow, the number three from last year's Tour will have the opportunity to demonstrate that the difference with his rivals has narrowed. This will be an important test for the Belgian who wants to assess where his preparation stands for the Tour.

"I already have the form I had at last year's Tour and therefore I am aware that I can still improve and improve. It's clear that the level will be higher compared to last year and the course is more difficult. But I am confident and I expect a great show".

After the December accident, Evenepoel started his season only in mid-April, with his first race being the Brabant Arrow, which immediately brought him success. Then he was third at the Amstel and fifty-ninth at Liege, results that should not cause concern. At the Tour de Romandie he did well, with a fifth place overall and a time trial victory. And now here is the Dauphine, the test that will allow the two-time Olympic champion to understand if the work done will yield the hoped-for results.