SAFETY first would be a good tactic for Tour de France leader Geraint Thomas to adopt today.

That's the view of a North Wales cycling figure ahead of a pivotal stage in the race.

Thomas is a near certainty to become the first ever Welsh winner of the Tour de France as he prepares himself for today's hilly 31km time trial from Saint-Pee-Sur-Nivelle to Espelette.

Thomas will be the last man out today at 3.29pm, defending a lead of two minutes and five seconds over Dutchman Tom Dumoulin, in second.

Third-placed Primoz Roglic is a further 19 seconds adrift in third position.

Rhos on Sea Cycling Club secretary John Clayton said: "Although I'm confident in him (Thomas), I think Dumoulin will throw everything at it and win today.

"Geraint would be wise to time it well and use the lead to enable him to stay safe by not going eyeballs out.

"Chris Froome, however, might just pull something out today and secure a podium place.

"G in yellow by the end of the day."