Rui Costa’s fondness for riding in the Switzerland is a well recognized thing, as he has dominated the most recent editions of the Tour de Suisse with two consecutive victories in the event in 2012 and 2013. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the 27-year old Portuguese aims to use the Swiss WorldTour event once again as his final build up towards the Tour de France, however, it will be the first time when he lines up in the beloved race as an appointed leader and World Champion.

Despite lining-up at the Tour de Suisse as the Lampre-Merida team and world champion for the first time, Costa insisted that his objectives haven’t changed significantly.

“My goals are every year the same. Give my best at every race I get in to. But of course the Tour will be a good test for me. I want to see how far I can go in this new condition: being a leader of the team. It's a new situation for me,” Costa said,  according to the Tour de Suisse official website.

Obviously, the 27-year old Portuguese emphasized that the Swiss stage-race is exceptionally close to his heart, as it racing in the alpine country more generally.

“It's a very special race for me. I really like this country. I like the landscapes, the beautiful mountains, the people, and also because many Portuguese live here. It's a great race that I have very good memories and a lot of support of the people.”

“This race is always hard, with big climbs that produces a beautiful spectacle to the public. This year will also be quite hard, a perfect race to prepare the Tour. I hope it will be a good race for everyone,” Costa concluded.