Europcar rider David Veilleux has stormed to victory in the opening stage of the Criterium du Dauphine in Champery.
The 25-year-old came home one minute and 56 seconds ahead of Gianni Meersman of Omega-Pharma Quick-Step, while Tom Jelte Slagter (Blanco) was one second further back after losing out to the Belgian in a sprint.
Team Sky duo Richie Porte and Chris Froome came in fourth and fifth respectively as Dave Brailsford's team prepare themselves for the Tour de France, which starts at the end of the month.
The second stage of eight takes place between Chatel and Oyonnax tomorrow.
