Chris Froome once again issued a robust defence of his strong performances yesterday as the Tour de France headed towards the Alps, where the race will be won.

The Team Sky rider maintained his lead of three minutes 10 seconds over nearest challenger Nairo Quintana (Movistar) after the 15th stage from Mende to Valence, won by Andre Greipel (Lotto-Soudal).

Froome had urine thrown over him and was called a “doper” on Saturday’s 14th stage and felt “irresponsible” reporters and television pundits were culpable for the hostile reception from roadside spectators, which has also seen Team Sky riders booed and spat at.

The 30-year-old was asked again about the incident as the peloton traversed southern France towards the Alps, where four stages will take place this week.

“Times have changed. Everyone knows that,” said Froome, referring to riders from the drug-riddled era who are now prominent on television screens.

“This isn’t the Wild West that it was 10, 15 years ago. Of course there are still going to be riders who take risks (with performance-enhancing drugs) in this day and age but they are the minority. It was the other way round 10, 15 years ago.

“There is no reason in this day and age for that level or suspicion to continue. There is absolutely no reason.”