While most of his Giro rivals are taking a well-earned rest, Wilco Kelderman is already back in action at the Criteriums du Dauphiné. Today he got the race off to a flying start with a fifth place in the time trial and now expects to benefit from his Giro condition in tomorrow's mountain stage.

The Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM is off to a flying start in the Critérium du Dauphiné. Wilco Kelderman placed fifth in the 10-kilometre time trial stage today in Lyon, only eleven seconds slower than winner Chris Froome of Sky.

Lars Boom took sixth place and Martijn Keizer was the third Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM rider in the top 20. With his Bianchi Pico Crono, he set the 18th best time. 

“A time trial is always difficult and a fight against yourself, but it went well today,” said Kelderman. “I started early and immediately set the fastest time.

"Fortunately, Jungels beat my time not long after that. I knew that in the last hour, a number of fast men would probably improve on my time. If I had to sit and wait on the hot-seat for a few hours, it just would have been a waste of time.” 

Sports Director Merijn Zeeman was pleased with the way the team began the race.

“This was perfect, I’m very satisfied. We were well prepared. Thanks to WeerPlaza, we knew that the wind would increase during the day. We benefited from that by letting our best riders start early. It feels good when the knowledge of our partners gives us an advantage in the race. That’s the way we like to operate. Today was a good day for our confidence.” 

The GC men face another test tomorrow. The peloton starts the second stage in Tarare and after 158 ​​kilometres of racing, finishes at 1400-metre on the Col du Béal. 

Kelderman sees it as an advantage that the race starts with a mountain stage.

“I still have good form from the Giro. Several others are preparing for the Tour and still miss a little rhythm. Later in the week, that will change. I have nothing to lose. I’m excited.”