CHRIS FROOME proved he is the Daddy of the Tour de France as he savoured a FOURTH win — joining Britain’s sporting greats.
The Team Sky ace hopped off his bike straight for a reunion with wife Michelle and baby son Kellan — who wore his own yellow jersey with ‘Froome’ on the back.
As he was joined on the podium by his family, Froome, 32, said: “It’s amazing to see them again — it feels like more than a month on the road.
“I’m speechless. There is something magical about the Champs-Elysees when you’ve spent three weeks thinking about this moment.
“I want to dedicate this to Michelle and Kellan — your love and support makes this all possible.
“My life with you is what makes all the sacrifices worth it. And I will be back to win No 5 next year!”
Froome insisted his latest triumph would not be overshadowed by doping slurs.
UK Anti-Doping chiefs are currently carrying out a probe into Team Sky’s conduct.
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Froome rapped: “What’s happened does not detract from my achievements.
“I won’t waste energy getting caught up in something that doesn’t involve me.
“When you have a three-week bike race, especially one that’s been this close for the Yellow Jersey, it’s just not something that’s on you radar.
“It’s all just noise in the background.
“It’s the same as a Frenchman going ‘Boo’ at the roadside. You hear it, but it doesn’t stop you pedalling.
“I hope people take me for what they see. I think people have come to know me a lot better over the last few years — and the French public has certainly turned.
“I’ve had an amazing reception on the roads and it hasn’t always been like that.”
Froome’s fourth Tour de France title was hailed by world cycling chief Brian Cookson.
The UCI president said: “It’s a superb performance. Historically not many people have achieved anything like this, so hats off to him.
“I think it is regrettable that people have a negative view of success.
“I have to assure everyone that all teams are treated equally and that our anti-doping procedures, for example, are rigorous and independent with no conflicts of interest and so on.
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