Tomorrow’s Pudential RideLondon Surrey Classic is very important for Chris Froome, as it allows him a rare shot at racing in front of a home crowd after winning another Tour de France title.

The climber has not raced one day in Britain since the 2012 Olympics and is keen to put on a show for home fans.

"I’m really looking forward to it. Every year there are more and more British fans who come out to every corner of France to see the Tour. They really make their presence felt and give brilliant backing to me, Team Sky and the other British riders. It makes such a huge difference and so it will be good to return the favour and come back to ride in the UK and thank them for that support," he told the race’s website.

Froome, like other Brit riders, has praised the event, saying it is important to have a big one-day race to go with the Tour of Britain in September.

"I think it’s really good news. Prudential RideLondon attracts a strong line up and has a reputation amongst the riders for being a tough, full-on race. It will be great preparation for Rio coming just a week ahead of the road race.”