Stage two of the 2013 Tour de France looks tailor made for Peter Sagan (Cannondale Pro Cycling).
The defending champion of the Tour’s coveted green jersey is one of the most colourful – and fastest – riders in the peloton.
Today’s 156km second etape from Bastia to Ajaccio on the Mediterranean island of Corsica could provide the Slovak champion’s first salvo in the battle to defend his maillot vert.
The 1km long, 8.9 per cent ramp of the Côte du Salario, positioned just 12km from the finish, will be an ideal launch pad for those strong enough to conquer short punchy climbs, and the flat final 11km should set up a sprint finish for those who crest it at the head of the field.
Step forward then the man known last year as The Tourminator, and this year, if his top tube is a guide, The Hulk; 12 times a winner already this season.
Stefano Sirotti took these superb images from the pre-race press conference and team presentation.
