Thomas hopes new role brings luck on 13th Tour

Geraint Thomas is relishing the "freedom" of his new role after being selected by Ineos Grenadiers for his 13th Tour de France.

The 2018 champion has been tasked with supporting team leaders Egan Bernal and Carlos Rodriguez when the race begins on Saturday. At 38, Thomas proved he still has the legs to compete in the general classification (GC) with a third-place finish in the Giro d'Italia in May.

However, he also said that could prove to be his last Grand Tour as team leader. Now the Welshman, who has stood on every podium position at the Tour, will for the first time immediately follow the Giro with the challenge of the great French endurance test.

He delayed the decision on whether or not to attempt the double, but freed of the shackles of leadership Thomas says he is ready to revel in the day-to-day racing. "I can't quite believe I am starting my 13th Tour de France - let's hope it's a lucky one," he said.

"I didn't know how I would feel after the Giro and getting back to training as I have never done the Giro-Tour double before, but it's been a solid block and the legs are feeling pretty good.