Froome wins first Dauphine stage

Chris Froome has won the first stage of the Criterium du Dauphine, crossing the line in Lyon eight seconds ahead of biggest rival Alberto Contador.

Chris Froome (pic) must focus on Alberto Contador when the Criterium du Dauphine begins in Lyon. (AAP)

Britain's defending champion Chris Froome has won the first stage of the Criterium du Dauphine, an individual time-trial in Lyon.

Froome finished the 10.4km course in 13 minutes 13 seconds, eight seconds ahead of biggest rival Alberto Contador of Spain.

Early pace setter Bob Jungels of Luxembourg finished third at nine seconds ahead of American Andrew Talansky.

Monday's second leg is a 156km ride between Tarare and the Col du Beal, with a final climb of 13.6km at 6.6 per cent.