Dowsett: Tour stage win would be 'career defining'

The 26-year-old Movistar rider will be among the favourites for the 13.8km time-trial in Urtrecht in what will be his first-ever Tour.

While Dowsett is a time-trial specialist the shorter course could see a host of other riders vying for the stage victory.

And while the Brit says winning the stage would be a highlight in his career, he is well aware of the competition he faces.

"Winning stage one and taking the yellow jersey would be career-defining," he said.

"If that is all you had on your CV, you could be more than satisfied.

"It's not out of the question. I think you will likely still see the [time-trial] specialists at the sharp end of the results list, but the problem with a short time trial is a lot more riders become a threat and would be motivated for it.

"Certainly, the sprinters and classics riders would all be able to deliver a strong prologue, so I think it will be a closely fought battle. I will attack it as hard as I can, as always."

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