Both Merckx and 1967 champion Gimondi were viewed as the principal favorites to win the race. Gimondi had won the Tour de Romandie and placed second in the Tour of Flanders.
In the context of the competition, Merckx and Gimondi were considered the leading candidates to emerge victorious. Gimondi's impressive record, which included winning the Tour de Romandie and finishing second in the Tour of Flanders, gave him an edge over other competitors.