Chris Froome confirmed to race in Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

Reigning Tour de France champion Chris Froome has confirmed he will race the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race next year.

Froome, a three-time winner of the world’s biggest race, will launch his 2017 campaign and fourth yellow jersey assault in Geelong on Sunday, 29 January.

The 31-year-old will lead defending champions Team Sky, who won in 2016 with Peter Kennaugh.

“I’m really looking forward to starting my season in Australia again,” Froome said.

“I love riding in Australia. The weather is great and the crowds always come out in force to support the riders. That makes it all the more enjoyable."

Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren, welcomed the announcement and confirmed the three time Tour de France winner and Olympic bronze medallist will compete solely in Victoria this summer.

“Sport’s biggest and best names belong in Victoria. Chris Froome is a giant of world cycling, and we’re delighted he’s racing exclusively here in Victoria,” Mr Eren said.
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“Our cycling events aren’t just great spectacles, they’re big boosts to the economy, too – and that puts people first. The big races give regional and rural communities their chance to shine.”