One of the most proven riders of the 2014 season, Tom Dumoulin, will enter Wednesday’s individual time trial with a bronze medal on his sight. Even though the 23-year old Dutchman has won three stages against the clock this year, he insists that beating Tony Martin (Omega Pharma – Quick Step) and Bradley Wiggins (Team Sky) remains beyond his reach at the moment.

“I would be happy with a podium. That would be a suitable way to end a very good year,” Dumoulin told NU.nl. “If nothing unexpected happens, Tony Martin will take the gold. Beating him is not feasible for me, but I don’t mind. That’s alright.”

Even though Wiggins hasn’t ridden as impressively as during his best 2012 season, Dumoulin insists that Team Sky rider is still able to be in contention as long as he remains focused on particular goal. As it is certainly a case in this year’s World Championship individual time trial, the 23-year old Dutchman considers him as the only threat to Martin’s title defense.

“He has proven to be very strong then his head is there. Besides Martin, I consider him the only contender for the gold.”

“There are many candidates for a podium spot and I have proven this year that I can achieve it. If I'm able each my usual level, this will be perfectly possible.”