With the Tour de France set to start next Saturday, Team Sky has given cycling fans a unique insight into their preparations for the Tour de France, using virtual reality to transport viewers to the heart of the action during a gruelling training regime and also during final race day preparations.

Sky’s in-house VR team were given unparalleled access, following Team Sky in two environments as they build up towards defending their Tour de France title in July, focusing on a training day in Monaco and during the Tour of Romandie in Switzerland, one of team leader Chris Froome’s main preparation races for this year’s Tour.

“A lot of work goes into our training and race preparation that wouldn’t normally be caught on camera,” said Team Sky team principle Sir Dave Brailsford. “This film captures a lot of that detail – from the rider training camps, warm ups and a glimpse inside the team car on race day. The film is a first of its kind which provides a unique perspective on Team Sky. I’m sure it’s something that all fans will enjoy.”

Over the coming year, Sky VR Studios will drive the creation of cinematic, fully immersive VR content, producing more than 20 individual films, across a range of Sky content – from major cultural events in news to some of the world’s biggest sporting events.

You can check out the video on the Sky Loves Cycling Facebook page.