The riders have each won one of the three major European cycling stage races, which includes the Tour De France, Giro De’talia and Vuelta a España.

The event will be the first Tour Down Under after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic with the race to end atop Mount Lofty for the first time.

The UCI Women’s WorldTour stage race has also been elevated to the top category of racing for the first time in the southern hemisphere.

We now have FOUR Grand Tour riders confirmed for the start line ? See which big names have been added ? https://t.co/ZzC346nMvU#TourDownUnder pic.twitter.com/nCJrmXsHyC

— Santos Tour Down Under ??‍♀️ (@tourdownunder) December 15, 2022

Santos Tour Down Under race director Stuart O’Grady said having Grand Tour winners travel to South Australia to take part in the Tour Down Under is the ultimate recognition for the event.

“It proves the importance of what the TDU consistently delivers, in the means of great race preparation for the cycling season ahead,” O’Grady said.

“Chris Froome is an international sporting superstar and the only rider still competing that has won four Tour de France.

“The fact that he sees Adelaide as an important step in rejuvenating his illustrious career after his almost career-ending crash in 2020, is heartwarming not only as a race organiser, but also as a fan.

“Then you have Geraint Thomas, riding into his 19th season as a pro, and Simon Yates who is one the world’s best climbers who should be right up there in contention on this course.

“Riders like this are a huge drawcard for the cycling fans and the next generation watching on and we should treasure each time we get the opportunity to witness these legends on our shores.”

The Santos Tour Down Under will take place from January 13-22 in Adelaide and surrounding regions.