DUBAI — The Criterium du Dauphine (Aug. 12–16) has traditionally been seen as the last big stage race ahead of the Tour de France, where riders look to test their form and asses their opposition. This year’s 72nd edition — which finishes two weeks before the Tour — has been reduced from eight to five days, but still packs a punch with three mountain, one medium mountain and one hilly stage squeezed into 795kms of testing terrain. Tadej Pogacar will lead a seven-man squad with support in the high ground from Davide Formolo, David de la Cruz and his fellow Slovenian Jan Polanc. With 27 climbs, and challenging uphill finishes at the end of each stage, this is a tour that will favor Pogacar’s characteristics and riding