Richie Porte feels on track to make amends for last year's Tour de France crash nightmare after securing the biggest victory of his career in the Tour of Switzerland.
The Australian star clinched the overall title in the week-long race ahead of Denmark's Jakob Fuglsang and Colombian Nairo Quintana, with a strong performance in the time trial on Sunday.
It was a timely boost three weeks out from the Tour de France, in which Porte will again rate among the genuine title chances 12 months after the horrifying 72km/crash on the Mont du Chat descent that left him with a fractured pelvis and broken collar bone.
"This was a big goal. Let's not beat around the bush," Porte said.
"It's a very important race and I think it's disrespectful to say it's a 'lead in' race for the Tour de France as it means a lot to win it.
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"I've won races like Paris-Nice, Catalunya and Romandie but this race is so special.
"I think going forward into the Tour de France, it's a good sign to win here.
"It would have been nice to have won a stage here and maybe if the breakaway hadn't stayed away on Thursday's stage, I would have won one.
"I'm ready for the Tour de France. I did a good race here. I'm not at the top of my form just yet so I am excited for July."
The BMC Racing star's good form in the Tour of Switzerland was all the more important because it was his first race since April.
"I hadn't raced since Tour de Romandie. I was at home for the birth of my son two weeks ago," he added.
"I've only had one night at home with him so I think it's great for me to get to go home for a bit of time before a training camp and then hopefully I'll be better at the Tour de France."
