Among all press conferences that took place at the pre-race headquarters, Nairo Quintana attracted the biggest number of media by far. He's considered by many observers the strongest rival of defending champion Chris Froome.

“Looking at the number and the quality of my competitors, it's maybe harder than ever to win the Tour but my team is ready, so it's possible”, the Colombian declared.

For the first time, he's the only captain of the Movistar team.

“I've trained to be able to respond to all of Froome's attacks”, he added. “Last year, nobody was able to follow him at La Pierre-Saint-Martin. We'll see if it's the same this year. He's the rider who has won the most since 2011. It looked like his weak point was the last week but he said he has prepared differently for the last so maybe he doesn't have any weak point any more. As for myself, I'm not sure if I'm stronger than last year but I'm more relaxed and more determined.

"We've prepared well for my yellow dream, and with the team that I have we have great possibilities. I feel relaxed and I have a great condition. All the feelings this year have been positive in all the races I've done.

"I've had a similar preparation from last year, because that's what has worked well. I think, once again, that the third week is the most important.

"We have learned many things. Above all, perhaps to manage my efforts more, have more tranquility and know when you really have to be careful. It's the maturity that I have achieved not only in the Tour but in other races.

"I am happier than other years. It is a course that helps me a lot and I like it. There are stages that are very key to the GC. There are two time trials, very close to the Mont Ventoux. And the last week is full of many mountains where we can see big differences. But my rivals also have similar characteristics and are very strong in those kind of mountains."