Copenhagen - Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Ramussen was Thursday set to test ride part of the tough mountain stage in the ongoing Tour de France, reports said.

The premier was one of thousands of spectators who Wednesday saw CSC cyclist Carlos Sastre of Spain grab the overall lead after winning the 17th stage that ended with a 13.8-kilometre climb to the top of the Alpe d'Huez.

Rasmussen was to take on the climb Thursday and has trained for it during the past year, the Politiken newspaper said.

Team CSC is headed by former Danish cyclist and Tour de France winner Bjarne Riis extended the invitation, the report said.

The Danish premier, who runs to keep in shape and has a summer house in southern France, said he remained fascinated by the Tour de France despite the headlines generated over doping.

"Cycling has to take on its problems, especially since they convey a bad image to children and youth," Rasmussen said, who also lauded Team CSC for its stance against doping. (dpa)