Geraint Thomas hints at targeting Giro d'Italia in 2017

Geraint Thomas has hinted he may target the Giro d’Italia instead of the Tour de France in 2017

The 30-year-old Welshman has ridden the Tour in six of the past seven years and was part of Team Sky's squad for all three of Chris Froome's overall victories.

However, he is keen to challenge for Grand Tour wins himself, and with Froome almost guaranteed to lead the team again at the Tour next summer, Thomas is considering May's Giro as an alternative.

Speaking at the Action Medical Research Champions of Cyclesport dinner on Thursday in London, he said: "The Tour suits me a bit better than any of the other ones because the climbs are a bit longer and not as steep, but obviously you have got a three-time winner in your team.

"Maybe I'll ride the Giro. There are so many options next year; it's exciting. I'm really looking forward to it."

Should Thomas decide to ride the Giro, he will face competition for the leadership of Team Sky from Spanish climber Mikel Landa, who has already made winning the pink jersey his main goal for next season.

The 2017 Giro contains 67.2km of individual time trialling and only four summit finishes, which should suit Thomas.

He could also ride the Vuelta a Espana but is unlikely to be team leader given that Froome has finished second three times and is expected to race it again next year.