Richie Porte posted a message of intent by winning the Tour de Romandie following an impressive time trial performance on the final day.

The Australian clocked just over 25 minutes for the 18.3km course in Lausanne for second place behind Primoz Roglic. But it was enough to take the general classification prize as Porte edged out Simon Yates by 21 seconds overall, with Roglic moving himself up to third.

 

Even more significant for Porte was his display in comparison to Tour de France rival Chris Froome who continued to perform below par for the season.

Froome finished a massive 38 seconds behind Porte in the time trial and could only claim 18th overall, nearly two minutes adrift over five full stages.

Porte, who was also victorious in the Tour Down Under in superb style earlier this year, said: “To win like this is incredible and it hasn't really sunk in yet.”

And although Froome is well known for his ability to peak at the right time for the Tour de France, the Team Sky star admits he’s still far from his best ahead of the biggest race of the season which starts in just two months.

 

“There’s a lot of work for me still to do ahead of the Tour de France, but I’m confident I know how to get the job done,” the British rider said.