While many may have doubts about Chris Froome's chances of competing in the Tour de France later this month, he is confident that this week's Criterium du Dauphiné will convince the management of Team Ineos to select him for cycling's major event. He is confident that he can show enough form to convince the management of Team Ineos to select him for cycling's major event this week.

"It's clear that I haven't raced in over a year and I haven't found my racing rhythm yet. [I think my preparation for the Tour de France is going well. Obviously, I'm happy to be racing again in the Dauphiné. Last year I had a big crash in the race. I can't believe I'm back in the peloton. I'm really enjoying being back in the race," said Froome as thunder rumbled through the Col de Porte summit finish of stage 2 on Thursday.

"Everyone rides light on race day, but I missed the second half of the season last year, so I have six months less than the other guys in that respect. I'm getting better with each race, from Occitanie to the Tour de l'Ain and now the Dauphiné. Every day is a test, every day is a condition improvement, and I'm really happy with the progress I've made so far. I'm really encouraged."

Froome finished 49th on the Col de Porte. He was 8.5 minutes behind stage winner Primoš Roglic (Jumbo Visma).

"As far as the Tour is concerned, I think today was a step in the right direction," he reiterated.

"I didn't make a huge contribution to everyone, but it was good to be able to run in the points like I did today, and it gave me the preparation and intensity I needed for the Tour."

Asked if he could have asked more of himself since returning to racing after a 14-month break, Froome said a resounding "no." He added: "I'm very grateful. I'm very grateful and I think I can take a lot of confidence from it, let's see what happens in a week."