Since winning the second stage of the Etoile de Besseges, Nacer Bouhanni’s sprint record this month has been second, fourth, fifth, third, and second. Having ended the last WorldTour season as the best man in Beijing, Bouhanni is in danger of becoming the bridesmaid this season. FDJ.fr have proved themselves to be more than capable lead-outs – see Arnaud Demare’s victory on the final day in Qatar for proof – but Bouhanni’s early season form has been no match for Andre Greipel and co so far.

But write off the Frenchman at your peril. Beijing last year proved the French team are quick learners when it comes to perfecting their sprint – after peaking far too soon on day one, they re-gathered and propelled Bouhanni to consecutive victories over the following two days. Lotto-Belisol’s sprint train prowess has made them almost unstoppable so far, but the one chance the French team was presented with to beat them in Qatar, they seized. Bouhanni, at just 23, has proved already he is far more than just a perennial contender. Last year brought 11 victories, a more than attainable target again this time out.