Thomas’ victory was the fourth stage race success of his career, and the Welshman wants to carry his form forward into an action-packed year.

“It’s always nice to be on the podium and get a win,” he said. “I don’t get to do it very often so I certainly enjoy that.

“It’s definitely a good confidence booster now going into the last big block of training. I’ve got a big block of racing then with three big stage races and then three big one-days as well. Hopefully I can take something out of all that.”

Volta ao Algarve 2016: final general classification

1) Geraint Thomas (GBR) – Team Sky – 18.34.15hrs
2) Jon Izaguirre (ESP) – Movistar +19”
3) Alberto Contador (ESP) – Tinkoff +26”
4) Thibaut Pinot (FRA) – FDJ +32”
5) Primoz Roglic (SVN) – LottoNL-Jumbo +49”
6) Tony Gallopin (FRA) – Lotto-Soudal +50”
7) Ilnur Zakarin (RUS) – Katusha +1.03
8) Jarlinson Pantano (COL) – IAM Cycling +1.04
9) Fabio Aru (ITA) – Astana +1.25
10) Manuel Antunes Amaro (POR) +1.27