A fantastic line-up of 15 of the world's Top 20 riders will be competing in the Tour's home leg, Valkenswaard, in a few weeks time. The spiritual home of the Longines Global Champions Tour will also welcome all of the Top Five ranked riders in the Longines GCT Championship as the season races towards it's climax in Doha.
With just six events left of the 14 leg series, the top of the leaderboard could not be closer. Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) is once again leading the charge, but is ahead by just 18 points, and will be fighting to increase the gap between herself and those who are hot on her tail. The 2011/2012 Champion has been one of the most consistent riders this season placing well in nearly every Grand Prix she has started in. However, Qatar's Bassem Hassan Mohammed is heading to Chantilly on a roll of good form having put in some of the best performances of his career this season. The rising star is poised in 2nd on the ranking to snatch the lead should Tops-Alexander faulter. Mohammed has become one of the most recognised riders on the circuit this season following his now famous 'hands-in-the-air' celebrations when he finishes the high pressire rounds clear. Just one point behind Mohammed lies Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) another young star on the rise who has collected some really strong finishes this year. Though he is yet to make it onto a Longines GCT Grand Prix podium, Gaudiano has been very consistent and looks on the verge of a big result. There are some big guns in 4th and 5th, in the form of former European Champions Rolf-Goran Bengtsson (SWE) and Kevin Staut (FRA). Just a few points behind Mohammed and Gaudiano, these experienced stars will be giving their all in Valkenswaard in the hope of toppling the leader from her position and they will be a tough pair to overcome. Aside from the top Championship contenders, World No2 Ben Maher (GBR), German Champion Daniel Deusser, legend Ludger Beerbaum (GER), USA star Kent Farrington, Olympic Gold medallist Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Dutch Champion Maikel van der Vleuten (NED) will be striving to take a Grand Prix win. As we approach the final in Qatar every round becomes increasingly important and every result is vital.
For the full rider list click here.