Team Sky abuse ‘disrespectful’ says Nicolas Roche

Nicolas Roche has described the ‘disrespect’ his Team Sky squad endured from spectators over the weekend.

Race leader Chris Froome had a cup of urine thrown at him on the approach to the finish at Mende on Saturday while the entire squad - including Roche - were booed, taunted and insulted by fans. “The fans were very aggressive; we’ve been booed and insulted,” said the Irishman.

“Luke Rowe and Richie (Porte) were spat at; it’s not only Froome but the entire team, every one of us. Even the last rider who was 25 minutes behind (has been targeted). It’s not great to be treated with such disrespect.”