GERAINT: 'IT'S GOING TO BE EPIC'

FORMER Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas joked he was a “little annoyed” a stage of the world-famous bike ride will be held in his home country just after his retirement.

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Speaking at the launch of the route, the Cardiff-born cyclist said it would be “super exciting” to see it in his home country, but said he was a “little annoyed” it was coming here after he retired.

"It’s amazing the Tour is going to come to Wales," he said. "It’s the biggest annual sporting event in the world and it’s the reason I got into cycling really.

"I’m a bit annoyed it didn’t happen two years ago when I could have done it, but it’s just amazing.

"The legacy it will leave will be key for Wales, to showcase Wales, the amazing scenery, the culture, the passion that Welsh people have and inspiring people to be active and to get out there and enjoy cycling.