Froome relaxed ahead of Tour de France

Froome started last year's Tour as the defending champion but exited on the fifth stage after three crashes in two days saw his defence come to an end.

The 30-year-old has since made his peace with what happened and admits that he is excited to get another shot at glory this time around.

"It just happens in bike racing, someone veered sharply ahead of me, across of my front wheel and took it out. There was nothing I could do. I continued, but that was what ended my race, that's where I fractured my hand," Froome said.

"The day after I got home, was watching the guys again, I had that burning desire and hunger to get back in. At that point, it seemed so long, so tough to get back, but it feels great to be here now.

"The whole team is buzzing after winning the Dauphine. It was good for everyone's morale. I feel a lot less pressure on my shoulders, a lot more relaxed this time around."

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