Last year, Niki Terpstra used the ITT two lay the groundwork for his overall win. Despite Alexander Kristoff winning three stages, and thus taking a time bonus of 30 seconds, the Dutchman blew hem away in the chrono by putting 44 seconds into the Norwegian.
In Qatar, wind is another crucial factor. Quite literally, the overall winner should be able to take a blow.
All in all, the Tour of Qatar is about sprinting, echelons and time trialling, which brings us to this list of main contenders:
Favourites Tour of Qatar
*** Alexander Kristoff, Mark Cavendish
** Greg Van Avermaet, Lars Boom, Andrea Guardini
* Lieuwe Westra, Tom Van Asbroeck, Jos van Emden
Tour of Qatar 2016: Route, Google Maps and more
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Tour of Qatar Route
Tour of Qatar Riders