GERAINT Thomas is storming to the Yellow Jersey in terrific style.

Thomas is a near certainty to become the first ever Welsh winner of the Tour de France and he could cement his place at the top of the podium with victory in today's stage 20.

This is a hilly 31km time trial from Saint-Pee-Sur-Nivelle to Espelette.

Thomas set the fastest time at the first checkpoint, 14 seconds quicker than his team-mate Chris Froome and 16 seconds clear of Tom Dumoulin.

Rhyl Cycling Club secretary Jon Harland said Thomas was in the form of his life and predicted the course would suit him.

Describing the Thomas ride as "smooth" so far, he added: "This is the terrain he loves - just like Mid Wales!"

Thomas is defending a lead of two minutes and five seconds over Dutchman Tom Dumoulin, in second.

Third-placed Primoz Roglic is a further 19 seconds adrift in third position.

Glyn Evans, from Ruthin Cycling Club, said: "(It) was a great stage yesterday and it showed how in control G was, he should have it in the bag now!"