The 104th edition of the Tour de France got into gear this weekend, which gives us another chance to take part in a summer Fantasy game.
For those playing the Velo Games Fantasy Cycling game there is a Fantasy Football Scout community league to take part in (league code – 776044417).
Here’s a quick reminder of the rules, team selection and some key cyclists to watch out for.
The Rules
Each player takes the role of a manager of a professional cycling team. The aim of the contest is to select the best possible team of nine riders, while operating within the conditions set on team selection. The better your racers perform during the three week event, the more points they will accumulate for your Fantasy squad.
Teams are given 100 credits to select their riders. credits are the games’ currency. Each rider is given a value in credits, based on their prospective points-scoring abilities.
However it is to be noted that there won’t be any further transfers available. So players are advised to choose their initial teams with a lot of care and precision.
Team Selection
Riders are split into four Rider Classes, which reflect their strengths, weaknesses and role within their team. These categories are All-Rounder, Climber, Sprinter and Unclassed Riders.
Each team must contain two All-Rounders, two Climbers, one Sprinter, three Unclassed Riders and one Wild Card. The Wild Card selection may be from any rider category, and allows a team manager to specialise somewhat in the team they pick.
The Route
Let us take a look at the important aspects of the route which plays a major role in deciding the results of a race.
This year’s race is expected to be more competitive and not favour any particular team. The race is 13 km shorter than the previous one and the climbs are much lesser than in 2016. A high number of steep mountain gradients are a part. The race started in Dusseldorf – the first time in three decades that this contest has started in Germany.
Important stages
There are 21 stages in total during the course of the race. Some of the races which are expected to play an important role in deciding the fate of the race are Stage 5,8, 9, 12, 13, 17 and 20.
Prominent Players
There are a total of 22 teams and 198 players taking part in this year’s tour.
They can be classified using various parameters. I have prepared a list on the basis of past records, bookies odds and current form.
Favourites: Richie Porte, Chris Froome, and Nairo Quintana.
