The last time Peter Sagan pinned a number to his back was almost one month ago at Flèche Wallonne. After a period of needed rest, essential to prepare for the second part of the season, the Slovak champion is ready to return to the peloton for the first stage of Tour of California, which gets underway today.

"I really want to race," affirmed Sagan. "The time at home without racing was useful to reinvigorate myself after a heavy spring season. I'm ready. I want, and need, to feel the adrenaline of racing. The Tour of California is the first step on my road to the Tour de France. July is still far away and in California I'm racing to win, not to train."

Fresh in the minds of fans are the incredible five victories Sagan accomplished last year. Sagan knows how difficult it will be to repeat the 2012 performance.

"I think the result in 2012 is something special. On paper the stages are harder this year," explained Sagan. "In California I have always found the opportunity to get great results. I like this state, I like how people love cycling and I like the "mood" of this race. The Tour of California is an important event and every year there are more strong riders to challenge. At the end, I want to do my best for the fans, my team and everyone that supports us. I can't wait to start the race."

Peter Sagan will attend the Tour of California from May 12 through May 19. From June 8 through June 16 he will race the Tour de Suisse, followed by the national championships. On June 29 he will start the Tour de France.