It was a novelty in 2005, when Lance Armstrong took the microphone on the Champs-Élysées after winning the Tour de France, telling the multitudes that he was sorry they couldn't dream big, but in recent years, the victory speech has simply become a part of protocol on the final stage of the race.
Chris Froome (Sky) made his third such speech on Sunday after landing his third Tour de France win in four years. The Briton crossed the line at the rear of the peloton at the end of stage 21, flanked by his Sky teammates, and it marked a rare occasion when the men in black weren't massed on the front on this Tour. It was hardly surprising that Froome's first thought on clearing his throat was for his comrades.
"To my teammates and support team, this is your yellow jersey too. I wouldn't be standing here if it wasn't for your commitment and sacrifice. A massive thank you to Dave Brailsford and my coach Tim Kerrison. This is one special team and I'm so proud to be a part of it," said Froome, who went on to dedicate his win to his infant son Kellan.
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Froome also remembered the victims of the terrorist atrocity in Nice on July 14, where 84 people were killed during Bastille Day celebrations. Although the publicity caravan was muted during the days of mourning that followed the tragedy, Froome paid tribute to the Tour for offering reassurance in a time of crisis.
"This Tour has obviously taken place against the backdrop of terrible events in Nice and we pay our respects once again to those who lost their lives in this terrible events. Of course this kind of event puts sport in perspective but it also shows why the values of sport are so important to a free society," Froome said.
"We all love the Tour de France because it's unpredictable but we love the Tour more for what stays the same. The passion of the fans from every nation along the roadside, the beauty of the French countryside and the bonds of friendship, this things will never change."
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