\n<\/p>\n
For Thomas, who has stood on all three steps of the podium on the Champs Elysees including top spot in 2018, it is a realisation of a dream.<\/p>\n
The Tour that inspired him to start cycling as a child will pass through the Cardiff streets were he grew up, beside the cycling track where his potential was first spotted and even past is local pub. <\/p>\n
But as well as the sporting and personal significance, the former Olympic champion is all too aware of the huge opportunities that await.<\/p>\n
The 39-year-old spoke of showcasing Wales and the “once in a lifetime” chance to both inspire future stars and inject impetus into the tourism sector.<\/p>\n
First minister Morgan added: “It’s a real opportunity. The eyes of the world will be on our country for one of the biggest sporting audiences on the planet.<\/p>\n
“Millions upon millions of people around the world will never have seen parts of Wales that we’ll be showing them.<\/p>\n
“This isn’t just a milestone for cycling in Wales, but it’s a celebration and an opportunity for us to show off our nation.”<\/p>\n
The Tour’s general director, Christian Prudhomme, said his first taste of Wales came with rugby before Thomas rivalled the red shirt with a yellow jersey.<\/p>\n
“The Grand Depart is always massive and we have to often explain to the French people why we go outside of France,” said Prudhomme.<\/p>\n
“But it is because we find passion and we know it will be a resounding success in Great Britain. Wales is made for bikes.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n