Each cycling season is a like a thumbprint, or a snowflake; unique. Although, by and large, the structure of the programme, at least for the men, has remained unchanged for generations (the women’s calendar is still a work in progress), no two years are alike because of the nature, form and intention of its protagonists.
This is why the early season, or even close-season pronouncements from the top riders and their teams are followed with such interest,
