2021 Men's Olympic Time Trial Race Preview
The details of this year's 2021 Men's Olympic Time Trial are falling into place. Find the latest route profiles and maps below, followed by our strategic preview of the race.
The roads around Oyama at the foot of Mount Fuji will host one of the most anticipated individual events of the Tokyo Olympics, as the world's finest time trialists go head to head over a demanding 44.2 kilometre course that promises to separate the pure specialists from the all-rounders.
The route itself is not flat. Riders will face a significant climb up to the Mikuni Pass, which sits at the heart of the course and will prove decisive in determining who stands on the top step of the podium. The ascent rewards those who can push enormous power figures over a prolonged effort, and the descent that follows demands both bravery and technical skill. This is not a course for the pure flat-road specialists, and the selective terrain means the startlist of 39 riders looks a little more open than it might otherwise.
The overwhelming favourite is Primoz Roglic of Slovenia. The Jumbo-Visma leader is widely considered the best time trialist in the world right now, a rider who combines raw power with an aerodynamic position honed over years of development. His Tour de France and Vuelta a Espana pedigree underlines his ability to perform at the highest level, and a course featuring a mountain climb suits him perfectly.
Tom Dumoulin of the Netherlands returns to the Olympic stage after a prolonged absence through injury and mental health struggles. His comeback has been emotional and inspiring, and he arrives in Japan with genuine medal ambitions. He is a former world time trial champion and Giro d'Italia winner, and when fully fit represents one of the most complete time trialling talents the sport has ever produced.
Rohan Dennis of Australia is another man who cannot be overlooked. The two-time world time trial champion is ruthlessly efficient against the clock, and although the climbing element of this course may not play entirely to his strengths, he has shown repeatedly that he can adapt to varied terrain. He will be highly motivated to add Olympic gold to his world titles.
Stefan Bissegger and Stefan Kung give Switzerland a strong hand, while Geraint Thomas of Great Britain brings Tour de France winning credentials to the start ramp. Wout van Aert has been in extraordinary form throughout the season and is capable of challenging for medals even in a discipline where specialists might be expected to dominate.
The start ramp order will send riders off at intervals, with the top seeds going last, meaning the tension will build throughout the morning. Weather conditions in Japan at this time of year can be unpredictable, and heat and humidity could play a significant role in how performances unfold over the course of the race.
All eyes will ultimately be on Roglic, but the climbs around Mount Fuji could yet produce a surprise. The strongest man on the day will be crowned Olympic champion, and the quality of this startlist guarantees a compelling contest.
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