German hopes of victory were high as they hosted the Grand Depart, with time trial specialist Tony Martin among the favourites for the stage win.

The riders had to cope with hazardous conditions on a technical 14 kilometre course, which led to a number of crashes, most notably for Spain’s Alejandro Valverde.

Former time trial world champion Vasil Kiryienka put down an early marker, with the Belarusian completing the distance in a time of 16min 11sec.

His time was eventually beaten by Thomas, as he crossed the line in 16:04 to secure a maiden stage win at the Tour de France.

Switzerland’s Stefan Küng would end as the runner-up after finishing 5sec down, pushing Kiryienka into third.

There was disappointment for Martin, with the German finishing 8sec behind the winner to miss out on a home victory.

Thomas’ team-mate Chris Froome will also look back on a positive opening day of the race, with the three-time winner and reigning champion gaining time on all of his general classification rivals.

The Briton ended sixth overall in 16:16, gaining 25sec on Australia’s Richie Porte and a further second on Colombia’s Nairo Quintana.

Quintana’s hopes have also taken a further blow with the loss of Valverde, who was forced to abandon after crashing heavily into barriers.

Valverde has reportedly suffered a broken kneecap.

Spain’s Alberto Contador also lost time to Froome, as the Trek-Segafredo rider was 42sec behind his Team Sky rival.

Sprinters are likely to get their first chance of a stage victory tomorrow, with a flat 203km course from Düsseldorf to Liege in Belgium offering an opportunity for them.