Domestique Stars: Examining the favourites for the Critérium du Dauphiné

It's a battle that's been hotly anticipated since it became clear some weeks ago that for the first time since the 2020 edition of the race, the top favourites for the Tour de France would face off against once another at the Critérium du Dauphiné, which begins tomorrow (8 June). Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel will meet at a race which fans are understandably excited for, as we get our first look at the riders who will fight for the maillot jaune next month.

A valuable preparation race for those lining up for La Grand Boucle, the Dauphiné is a vital opportunity for riders to size up their opponents as well as find their legs on similar roads to those they will take on in July, touring the French Alps for eight days of difficult racing. 

While the titans of our sport prepare to battle it out, the creators at Domestique are taking a closer look at the balance of power heading into the race. Lining up today to share their take on the favourites are Dieter Loos and Bence Czigelmajer. Read on to see who they've picked - and how they see the race unfolding.

"For me, this feels like Pogačar’s Dauphiné to lose. Without Grand Tour fatigue, he should have the edge and the upper hand over Jonas. I do think it’ll be the other way around next month at the Tour de France. Beyond the battle between the aliens, I’m really curious (and full of expectations) about the Ineos guys: Rodríguez and Sheffield. I’m also looking forward to seeing the next step from Lipowitz in a field like this."

"Critérium du Dauphiné will bring us a long-awaited battle between the best climbers of our sport. Since there are many uncertain factors regarding preparation, I will go with the order in which last year's Tour de France finished. It will also be worth keeping an eye on the battles behind the supposed top three, with two names standing out: Lenny Martinez could challenge the podium at his top form, while Ben Healy could once again kick-start his GC campaign, given his performance at the Itzulia."

The verdict is in: and our creators are unanimous. Both back Pogačar to take victory in a race he hasn't taken part in since 2020 - the year he first stormed to victory at Le Tour. 

There is a consensus between the pair on the next two favourites, unsurprisingly, with Vingegaard and Remco anticipated as the only riders capable of contending with the world champion. The first point at which their views diverge is on Lipowitz and Mas - pointing to an underexposed storyline in this Dauphiné: who, if anyone, can shake up the expected order? We'll know in a week...