When Lionel met Geraint – two champions come face to face
TOUR de France champion Geraint Thomas has taken plenty of selfies since his summer triumph – and made the most of another photo opportunity with Lionel Messi after watching him bag a hat-trick for Barcelona in the Champions League this week.
It was, though, not exactly clear just who was posing for a snap with who at the Nou Camp.
Cardiff-born hero Thomas has found himself the centre of attention since succeeding fellow Britain Chris Froome as Tour champion in July to claim cycling’s biggest prize.
The Welshman was invited to Barcelona’s famous home as a VIP guest, enjoying the best seats in the house and mingling with the great and the good behind the scenes.
On Tuesday’s evidence, Messi could yet drive the Spanish side on to European glory, having chalked up a 48th career hat-trick as Barcelona thrashed Dutch champions PSV 4-0 in their opening Champions League group fixture.
Thomas, 32, was all smiles as he caught up with the Argentina number 10 afterwards, writing on Instagram: “That was some day!! Huge thanks to everyone at @fcbarcelona especially this man for putting on a good show £hattrick “
Followers of the Team Sky rider, recently back in action on the Tour of Britain, were quick to pick up on the meeting of two athletes at the top of their respective sports as one reply read: “LIONEL MESSI GOT HIMSELF A PHOTO WITH KING OF WALES!!!