In 2018, the Tour Down Under celebrates its 20th birthday. The WorldTour opener returns to Port Adelaide where the first stage of the race started from in 1999. On the start line at the inaugural edition of the race was Mitchelton-Scott sports director Matt White.
During his riding career, White won a stage of the race into Yankalilla in 2005 but it's been in the team car that he has enjoyed great success. In 2011, White masterminded Cameron Meyer's overall win, returning the following year with GreenEdge to guide Simon Gerrans to the win. In 2014 and 2016, White was also behind the wheel as Gerrans claimed the overall win. During his time at the race, White has also overseen countless stage wins including four by Caleb Ewan in 2017.
With his extensive knowledge of the roads that feature in the Tour Down Under and winning record at the race, Cyclingnews spoke with White for a comprehensive stage-by-stage preview of the 2018 edition of the race.
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People's Choice Classic, 50.6km
Adelaide usually turns up the heat so for the non-Australians it is an early season shock to the system.
It is not officially part of the Tour Down Under but it is a chance for the sprinters to get their timing right and it can be the first time for many teams that certain combinations have raced together. It is a good opportunity to get the ball rolling for the start of the season.
I think Caleb Ewan will definitely be the guy to beat in this little race teaser. Obviously, Peter Sagan and Andre Greipel will be our main competition but, as we stand, I don't know any other world-class sprinters who are down to race.
Stage 1: Port Adelaide to Lyndoch, 145km
Stage 2: Unley to Stirling, 148.6km
Stage 3: Glenelg to Victor Harbor, 146.8km
Stage 4: Norwood to Uraidla, 128.2km
Stage 5: McLaren Vale to Willunga, 151.5km
Stage 6: Adelaide street circuit, 90km
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