Preview Part 2 - "We have the best time trialist in the world, of course we want to win"

In the second part of the 2026 Tour de France preview, team manager Ralph Denk first looks at the race route. "It is a very balanced and tough Tour de France. I particularly like the start in a major metropolis, and the finish is also very well designed," says the 52-year-old. The focus then shifts to Saturday's opening stage. A team time trial is scheduled in Barcelona, where the fastest individual time will serve as the benchmark for the stage win. Denk looks ahead to the start of the Tour with confidence. "With Remco Evenepoel, we have the best time trialist in the world in our team. Of course we want to win in Barcelona," Denk emphasizes. In the final section, he discusses the favorites for the overall victory, with the superstar of cycling standing out. "Tadej Pogacar is the absolute favorite. In a man-to-man duel, under normal circumstances, he cannot be beaten. The battle for the podium in Paris is anything but a given. It's going to be extremely exciting," Denk concludes. Photo: IMAGO / Belga