Giro d'Italia 2018: Chris Froome vows to ‘keep fighting’ in General Classification

Froome, 32, had been vocal about challenging for the pink jersey at this year’s Giro as he bids to complete cycling’s triple crown.

However things have not gone well for the Team Sky man, as he trails General Classification leader Simon Yates by well over three minutes, and there had been some speculation that Froome would leave the race early and focus on his fifth Tour de France title.

Speaking to Eurosport’s Jonathan Edwards after Stage 11 however Froome rubbished those reports saying that he plans to stay.

“No, no, I’m going to keep fighting, it’s good to get this racing in the legs.” Froome said.

“I haven’t done much racing this year so it’s good to get the racing in and I certainly haven’t given up hope. We saw yesterday with Esteban just how quickly this race can change for anyone of those GC riders so I’m going to keep plugging away, the team’s motivated, I’m motivated and we’re going to do the best we can.”

Froome was quick to highlight the difficult of Stage 11 and how his crash ahead of the start of the race in Israel was still impacting him.

“It was a tough day, it wasn’t as long but after yesterday’s stage that was a pretty brutal little finish,

“I’m not going to lie it took a whack out of me that crash before the start over in Jerusalem, I’ve had a lot of pain down my right-hand side. In this game if you’re not at your best there’s nowhere to hide. I feel as if I’ve been progressing throughout the race and still just chipping away and trying to do the best I can.”

He added he was delighted that to see compatriot Yates leading the race.

“He is flying and I’m genuinely happy for him. It’s great to see another Brit in the pink jersey and he’s got a really strong chance of winning it!”