Froome in the pink after Yates had led for so long

CHRIS Froome became the first British man to win the Giro d’Italia as he completed the set of Grand Tour victories with his third successive triumph.

Having safely negotiated yesterday’s 115km, largely ceremonial final stage in Rome, the 33-year-old Team Sky rider finished 46 seconds clear of second-placed Dutchman Tom Dumoulin, the 2017 Giro champion, in the general classification.

Simon Yates, from Bury, who led for most of the race and claimed three stage wins, finished 22nd in the general classification, with Ireland’s Sam Bennett claiming the sprint finish for a third stage win of his own. Froome said on Eurosport: “I don’t think it has quite sunk in yet, but I’m sure it will over the next few days once I’ve had a bit of time to reflect.

“It has just been incredible. Obviously for any cyclist this is the dream. To have all three leaders’ jerseys in the space of 10 months is just an incredible feeling. I’m still pinching myself.”

Froome had moved into the overall lead on Friday as he won stage 19 with a stunning ride, going from fourth, three minutes and 22 seconds off the top, to 40 seconds clear of nearest rival Dumoulin (Team Sunweb).

That extended to 46 seconds on Saturday as he all but ensured his status as champion.

And he not only wore a pink jersey but also rode a pink bike.