Sky boss Brailsford vows to win Tour again in 2017

PARIS (AFP) — Sky’s team principal Dave Brailsford vowed to come back to the Tour and win it again next year following a fourth success in five years.

Chris Froome secured his third win in four years to add to the 2012 success of his then-Sky-teammate Bradley Wiggins — the first for Sky and first ever for a Briton in the world’s greatest bike race.

But just minutes after the 103rd edition of the Grand Boucle ended, Brailsford already had his mind on next year.

“It’s very satisfying, we’re very happy, this was by far the most enjoyable Tour that we’ve done,” he told Britain’s Sky Sports.

“We raced differently [this year], we used a more offensive set of tactics and it was fun, it was racing.

“As always, you get to this point, you get to Paris, you see the Union Jacks and you just feel proud.

“It’s a British success story I’d like to think. The team was perfect, it was the best team performance we’ve put together. Chris was brilliant so overall it’s been a great three weeks and we’ll come back to do it all over again next year.”

Froome dedicated his win to his young child before remembering those who died in the Nice terror attack two weeks ago, during the Tour.

“My son, Kellan, I dedicate this victory to you,” said Froome. “This Tour has obviously taken place against the backdrop of terrible events in Nice and we pay tribute to those who have lost their lives.

“These events put sport into perspective but it also shows the value of sport to free society.”

And he once again praised his Sky outfit which despite not winning the team award, had proved they were the strongest throughout the last tree weeks. “To my team-mates and support team. This is your yellow jersey too,” he said “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for your sacrifice. This is one special team and I’m proud to be a part of it.”