www.albertocontadornotebook.info - Alberto Contador Fans Notebook



CONTADOR DAY IN IMAGES

September 19, 2016 - Video and photos from Alberto's two-day group ride in the Dolomites




Alberto Contador completed the second half of his challenging gran fondo yesterday by climbing the legendary Mortirolo. The weekend event, which included a climb of the Gavia on Saturday, drew hundreds of participants. Among them were big names like Ivan Basso and Alessandro Ballan, as well as riders from the Contador Foundation's U23 team and ambitious amateurs.

PHOTO GALLERY - OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Thanks to @2WheelTonio for posting the video.


GAVIA VIA LA VATELLINA

September 17, 2016 - One day down, one to go for Contador's gran fondo in the Dolomites


Gavia Day 2016

Alberto Contador, Ivan Basso and riders from RH+/Polartec Fundación Contador on Gavia Day 2016 (AC press room)

A great weekend of cycling began today in La Vatellina as stars Alberto Contador and Ivan Basso led hundreds of amateur riders up the Passo di Gavia, starting from Ponte di Legno.

The second and final part of the two-day event will take place tomorrow, Sunday, with the climb of the Mortirolo. Riders from the Alberto Contador Foundation have come from Madrid to experience their first point of contact with this legendary mountain, as they did with the Gavia today, ushered by Contador and Basso.

Contador and Basso confirmed yesterday in a press conference that they will work together next season in the ranks of Trek-Segafredo, where Alberto’s top priority will be fighting for another Tour de France win, after having made, as he says, “the best decision possible from a sporting perspective,” for what will be his new team as of January 1.

Ivan Basso will accompany Contador to Trek-Segafredo as a technical consultant, responsible for relations between riders and staff, and working especially with young riders from the Foundation whom he will follow closely throughout the season.

This is the fifth season that Contador has visited La Vatellina to offer his young riders the chance to get to know some of the most important climbs in the history of cycling. Team manager Fran Contador has chosen Juan Pedro López, Alejandro Ropero and Carlos García to participate this year in what will surely be a formative experience in their careers.

Official press release, AC press room

Profiles, program and more at CONTADOR DAY OFFICIAL WEBSITE


"CONTADOR DAY" THIS WEEKEND IN THE DOLOMITES

September 16, 2016 - Alberto says at his annual Gavia/Mortirolo group ride presser, “I’m a proud rider and I want to win the Tour again”


Contador Day 2016 MARCA | Although he’s legally bound to wear the Tinkoff crest on his chest – his contract runs until December 31 – Alberto Contador is already thinking like a member and leader of Trek-Segafredo, his new squad for next season: “It’s an exciting setup. I’ve chosen it for sporting reasons, above all, thinking about the Tour de France.

"I’m a proud rider and I want to win the Tour de France again. Teammates, staff and equipment, all that in one package made my mind up. I’m excited and motivated. I’ve already got one eye on next year.”

Today’s event, Contador’s first press appearance since he announced his signing, was held to promote Contador Day, his annual gran fondo in the Italian Dolomites, which takes place this weekend and features mythic and colossal climbs like the Gavia and the Mortirolo. The rider took the opportunity to promote the challenge, but also to give a rundown of the season that is coming to an end: “It’s been an intense season. A very good first part, in which victories escaped by mere seconds. Then, I think that I did a good approach to Tour, but the Tour didn’t work out for me at all. Too many crashes. In the Vuelta, I started really excited about it, although I didn’t have a good base due to the injuries from the crashes.”

Alberto made a particular point of showing respect for his current team: “It’s been a rather singular year. For me, it was special thanks to Tinkoff. They’ve supported me all these years. I’m proud to wear this jersey and I’m going to keep doing it until the last moment. I’ll probably participate in Il Lombardia (October 1) and in Abu Dhabi (October 20-23). I’ve had four seasons of total support by Tinkoff.”

Finally, he let show his excitement about the group ride tomorrow that features him as the main attraction, and in which he will participate together with his friend and colleague Ivan Basso, who accompanied him to the press conference and who will follow him to Trek-Segafredo as a member of the technical staff: “Italy brings back great memories. On the Mortirolo I experienced a lot of suffering, but also great moments. It’s going to be a day I look forward to, because I really will be pedaling with the fans, with the people who support me along the roads. They will certainly put pressure on us on the climbs, but it’s going to be a day to enjoy.”


CONTADOR DAY: GAVIA AND MORTIROLO GRAN FONDO

September 16, 2016 - Alberto Contador climbs two legendary peaks with fans this Saturday and Sunday


Contador Day 2016 This weekend, September 17 and 18, is Alberto Contador's annual gran fondo in Italy, Contador Day. The multi grand-tour winner and his U23 team RH+/Polartec Fundación Contador will be joined by a large group of amateur riders in a climb of the Gavia on Saturday and of the Mortirolo on Sunday.

Check out the CONTADOR DAY OFFICIAL WEBSITE for profiles, program and more.


2016 VUELTA A ESPAÑA

Ourense - Madrid, August 20 - September 11, 2016


GO TO 2016 VUELTA A ESPAÑA


CONTADOR WINS VUELTA A BURGOS

August 6, 2016 - Alberto claims the overall title by 1" with late stage attack


Stage 5, August 6: Caleruega – Lagunas de Neila, 163 km

Alberto Contador has won the overall title in the XXXVIII Vuelta a Burgos with an attack in the final kilometer of the queen stage.

Burgos 2016 is his 26th career stage-race victory. Congratulations, Alberto!

Watch the stage here:



RACE ATLAS


SAVVY CONTADOR MOVES UP

August 5, 2016 - Contador not caught out by Katusha attempt to break the peloton


Stage 4, August 5: D.O. Ribera del Duero y Arlanza: Aranda de Duero – Lerma, 145 kmm

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 4, 13th (0:03 Nathan Haas - 3:15:43). Contador in GC, 25th (0:13 Meersman - 11:36:46)

TOP THREE: 1 Meersman, 2 Gruzdev (s.t.), 3 Cataldo (s.t.)


FEELING GOOD, CONTADOR ATTACKS ON RETUERTA

August 4, 2016 - Alberto springs into offensive action in Vuelta a Burgos Stage 3


Alberto Contador and teammate cruising in Stage 3

Alberto Contador and teammate cruising in Burgos Stage 3 (Vuelta a Burgos)

Stage 3, August 4: Sedano – Villarcayo, 198 km

Alberto Contador tested his recuperating legs with a strong attack at 25 kilometers to go today in Stage 3 of the Vuelta a Burgos. The Tinkoff leader sprang from the pack on the slopes of the Alto Retuerta in pursuit of FDJ’s Kenny Elissonde. He caught the Frenchman, then dropped him on the steepest part of the climb. Three other riders bridged to Contador, and the four kept a modest gap for fourteen kilometers. In the end, Danny Van Poppel won again in a sprint.

“Climbing the Retuerta, I saw another rider attack,” Contador said after the stage. “I was riding in a very good position and I went after him, the truth is, I don't know why. In fact, when he jumped, I thought, 'And why should I attack?' But well, I’m pretty happy with it,” he said.

Throughout his career, Contador has lived by the principle “If you want to win, you have to practice winning.” Today’s attack was never going to result in a stage win: the top of the Retuerta was 22 kilometers from the finish, and the descent was followed by a flat run-in to the line. By attacking, Alberto pushed himself into ramming speed, and was able to get a reading there on his state of wellness and form subsequent to the two serious crashes in July. The result deserves a thumbs up – for entertainment value as well as for a test of health – even though it’s not time for a win yet.

“Man, the legs are still not there yet,” Contador said, revealing a little impatience mixed with his satisfaction. “They’re going, which is no small thing. If I had been 100% maybe I could have gotten a good gap. But we have to take what's positive away from this: It was a very fast stage, of almost 200 kilometers, and it suited me perfectly for continuing to recover muscle tone,” he concluded.

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 3, 24th (s.t. D. Van Poppel – 4:35:47). Contador in GC, 32nd (0:13 Gruzdev – 8:21:01)

TOP THREE: 1 Grizdev, 2 Catañdo (s.t.), 3 Scarponi (s.t.)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS - RACE ATLAS, STAGE 3


CONTADOR'S REC0VERY ON TRACK IN BURGOS

August 3, 2016 - Alberto shines as Tinkoff ride to 8th place in Stage 2 TTT


Alberto Contador was happy after the Burgos TTT

Alberto Contador looked relaxed and happy after the Burgos team time trial (@Contador_Info)

Stage 2, August 3: Burgos (Fórum) – Burgos (Plaza del Rey San Fernando), 10.72 km (TTT)

Alberto Contador was smiling at the finish line of Stage 2 of the Vuelta a Burgos, even without a team time trial victory to celebrate. Tinkoff finished in eighth place, thirteen seconds behind Astana, but they looked functional and organized over the 10-plus kilometers around Burgos. Contador himself looked strong and focused, his form clearly on the uptick.

“I’m doing fine," he said when asked the often-repeated question about his health after the stage. "I’m feeling better little by little – in the time trial today I felt very well. I measured my effort, I even had to control myself.”

He continued, “I have to be realistic. Clearly there are people here who are much better into the rhythm of racing than I am. I'm coming off a long break, so it’s normal that I feel the effort a little more. I’m not in optimal condition, although I’m not bad,” Contador said.

The Vuelta a Burgos seems to be just the medicine for Alberto Contador. Building both form and confidence for the Vuelta a España, his main goal, he said today that Burgos is "ideal in the context of the approaching Vuelta a España." Even though that start line in Galicia is still almost three weeks away, in Burgos "the difficulty of the race and the quality of the competitors make it a good touchstone.”

"It's a good test for getting into rhythm and watching how I feel physically," said Alberto. "There are many riders with options, since in this type of race there are cyclists whose point of form you don’t know, and they can surprise you.”

Contador might take a stab at victory in Burgos, and to do that he must get past a formidable bump in the road, the climb to Lagunas de Neila in the queen stage, Stage 5. “It will be a good day to test ourselves, in order to give the legs a good stiff workout and to see how far we can get. We’ll see in what situation the team time trial leaves us with respect to our rivals, and we’ll see what we can do on Neila,” he said.

ACCORDING TO...

Ivan Basso, Tinkoff DS: “We did our best today, and we have first of all to say thanks to all the riders for their commitment, as we had Sergio Paulinho who has quite some pain after his crash yesterday, but he wanted to support the team and he did his best in the start of the stage. Now he’s having further scans to check over his situation.

“Alberto was fantastic, looking strong today, and all the other boys did their best. Most of the riders here are coming from injury, a crash, or a period out of racing, so I’m proud of what they gave today. We lost only a small amount of time – not too much by the end of the day. We tried hard to help each other, to do the best possible.

“We still take it day-by-day, working hard with the right motivation and the right attitude and in that way I’m sure that by the end of the week we will be happy with our performance here. I must also say thanks to the staff for their hard work behind the team for the TTT today as it’s full gas, and they did a great job.”

RESULTS: Tinkoff in Stage 2, 8th (0:13 Astana – 13:10), Contador after Stage 2, 39th (0:13 Scarponi – 13:10). Contador in GC, 38th (0:13 Grudzev – 3:45:14)

TOP THREE: 1 Gruzdev, 2 Cataldo (s.t.), 3 Capecchi (s.t.)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS - RACE ATLAS, STAGE 2


BURGOS OFF AND RUNNING

August 2, 2016 - Contador home safe in opener


Stage 1, August 2: Sasamón – Melgar de Fernamental, 158 km

Alberto Contador finished Stage 1 of the Vuelta a Burgos safely in the pack today in the same time as the stage winner, sprinter Danny Van Poppel.

Contador rode within the protection of his team. There were no incidents or actions of note, except for a crash without serious consequences by Sergio Paulinho, Contador's Portuguese right-hand man.

ACCORDING TO...

Ivan Basso, Tinkoff DS: “There’s nothing special for us to say about today’s stage, but the guys worked well together, finding the processes ahead of the Vuelta, riding in a good position and staying out of trouble.”

“At the end we wanted to do the sprint with Blythe but unfortunately he had contact with another rider and had to unclip. So no result, but I liked the commitment and focus I saw from the team, being at the front. I’m happy with the guys today, and we’ll continue to take it day-by-day.”

About Paulinho's crash: “For the moment he’s OK but when you crash at 60kmh you never know how you will feel. We will check on his condition tonight and tomorrow morning and take it from there

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 1, 41st (s.t. D. Van Poppel – 3:32:04). Contador in GC, 41st (s.t. D. Van Poppel – 3:32:04)

TOP THREE: 1 D. Van Poppel, 2 Drucker (s.t.), 3 Meersman (s.t.)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS - RACE ATLAS, STAGE 1


VUELTA A BURGOS TODAY

August 2, 2016 - Contador races at home in Spain this week


Alberto Contador continues his Vuelta a España preparation this week in the 38th Vuelta a Burgos. The five stages in north-central Spain start today with a sprinter stage.

Ivan Basso, the Tinkoff directeur sportif assigned to Burgos, made some preliminary comments about Contador's team for Burgos: “For Alberto, he comes here from injury so we have to see how he is. We will focus on bringing him through the race in a good way, and we will see how he recovers from San Sebastian and go from there.

“For the other riders, it’s a good race to take their opportunities for results. We will see day-by-day who can do what. In this race I think you can get your own results, which is important for the riders. I want to see the Tinkoff spirit, which is in our DNA, to see the team fighting, motivated, committed and working hard in the race.”

Riding for Tinkoff: 111 Alberto Contador, 112 Michael Gogl, 113 Adam Blythe, 114 Sergio Paulinho, 115 Jay McCarthy, 116 Ivan Rovny, 117 Yuri Trofimov, 118 Jesús Hernández

RACE ATLAS


SAN SEBASTIÁN UPDATE

July 30, 2016 - Uneventful day for Contador as he gages recovery


Alberto Contador finished the Clásica San Sebastián today safely with no issues in his first race since abandoning the Tour de France due to injury in Stage 9.

Contador stayed with the front of the peloton on the long and taxing course until the final climb. Taking the one-day race as a recovery and training session, he said afterwards, "I'm happy with how I finished. We climbed the final climbs fast and my legs were going pretty well."

By way of explanation, he continued, "I started the final section not-so-well positioned after losing a few positions on a roundabout, and that made it impossible for me to move forward."

As colleagues arrive in Brazil for the start of the Rio Olympics, Contador, thanks to his bad luck in the Tour, will continue to nurse himself back to health in the Vuelta a Burgos (August 2-6).

RESULTS: Contador in San Sebastián, 39th (1:54 Mollema - 5:31:00)

TOP THREE: 1 Mollema, 2 Gallopin (0:17), 3 Valverde (0:17)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CLÁSICA SAN SEBASTIÁN TOMORROW

July 29, 2016 - Alberto Contador rides the Basque one-day classic to get back up to tempo


Alberto Contador will be back on the bike tomorrow, July 30, for the Clásica San Sebastián. Contador will make his comeback from the injuries that forced him out of the Tour de France by taking the Basque classic calmly.

“It’s a very demanding race where the cyclists who are coming from the Tour have an advantage due to being in form," said Alberto today in comments released by his team. "It will be difficult to be at their level, but it will be good if I can increase my pace.”

This edition features six climbs - three first- and three second-category slopes - spread over 220.2 kilometers. It won't be an easy day even for riders in full form, and for Contador it means a true test to gage how well his recuperating left leg might perform in next week's Vuelta a Burgos and, more importantly, in the Vuelta a España (August 20-September 11). “Although the discomfort is there and I have a slower rhythm than I had hoped, it doesn’t worry me," he said. "I’m aware that I’ll be a little lacking in rhythm in San Sebastián and Burgos, but I know that the best thing to do is to think ahead to the Vuelta a España. I’m going to tackle these two races rather calmly and with a longer-term objective.”

“I feel pretty well, but not perfect. There’s no comparison to the form I had in the Tour, but I don’t do any stretches yet due to the risk of a relapse”

Contador has had to recover from the disappointment of crashing out of the Tour, in addition to the physical damage, since his entire season had been focused on those three weeks in France. “I saw many stages of the Tour on television, but it wasn’t easy to follow the race because I knew every nook and cranny of the route and it seemed difficult for me to accept that I wasn’t there," he explained. "However, the sport is like that, and I’m already feeling better and working for my next objective, the Vuelta a España.”

“I’m excited and thinking about the approach of the Vuleta a España. It’s my home race, I’ll be at home and I’m really eager to get started.”

Riding for Tinkoff at the Clásica San Sebastián: 11. Alberto Contador, 12. Oscar Gatto, 13. Sergio Paulinho, 14. Jesús Hernández, 15. Roman Kreuziger, 16. Evgeny Petrov, 17. Ivan Rovny, 18. Yuri Trofimov. DS: Patxi Vila

To see the route and learn more about the race, go to our RACE ATLAS.


2016 TOUR DE FRANCE

Normandy - Paris, July 2-4, 2016


GO TO 2016 TOUR DE FRANCE


CONTADOR WINS DAUPHINÉ PROLOGUE

June 5, 2016: “It’s been a perfect day for me,” says Alberto




Prologue, June 5: Les Gets - Les Gets, 4 km

Alberto Contador’s Dauphiné got off to the best possible start today as he climbed to an impressive victory at Les Gets in the short uphill prologue.

Contador bested Richie Porte by six seconds and Chris Froome by thirteen to take this edition’s first maillot jaune, and the polka-dot and green jerseys to boot.

Racing for the first time since winning the Tour of the Basque Country in April, Alberto sprang from the gate clearly fighting fit, and danced steadily on the pedals over the four kilometers of 10% average gradient, with slopes up to 20%.

“It was a very hard time trial, especially from the 2nd kilometer to the 1st kilometer from the end,” said a very happy Alberto while warming down on the rollers before the podium ceremony. “This cronoescalada was really hard, but, in a certain way, the difficulty suited me.

“My performance wasn’t a surprise, although it’s true that I didn’t expect to win. I knew that I could do a good crono, but I still lack a little speed in the legs. I rode with my heart going like gangbusters,” he said.

Alberto, who had overtaken his struggling minute-man on the narrow mountain road, continued, “It´s been a perfect day for me, a good test that I tackled full gas. I’m going to take it one day at a time from now on. The time gaps are very small, and there are other teams coming who are really strong, like Sky, who have four or five riders who could fight for the GC. Controlling this race could be too exhausting for Tinkoff. At the end of the week, we’ll see, but my objective here is to ride to gain form for the Tour.”

Today's win is Contador's fourth so far in 2016, after a stage in the Volta ao Algarve, plus one stage and the overall in País Vasco.

The Critérium du Dauphiné (June 5-12) continues tomorrow with a 186-km stage from Cluses to Saint-Vulbas. Start time is 12:30 CEST, live video starts at 3:40.

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen de Jongh, Tinkoff DS: “Ahead of tomorrow there are already some gaps in the GC but the most important thing is to come out better as the race goes on. Of course the GC is important, but not at any price. Tomorrow’s stage suits the sprinters so we’ll see what happens there.”

RESULTS: Contador in prologue, 1st (11:36). Contador in GC, 1st (11:36)

TOP FIVE: 1 Contador, 2 Porte (0:06), 3 Froome (0:13), 4 Martin (0:21), 5 Alaphilippe (0.24)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CONTADOR TAKES FOURTH CAREER TITLE IN PAÍS VASCO

April 9, 2016 - Alberto dominates final stage ITT, wins the GC...and says he’ll delay retirement!


Alberto Contador makes it four career titles in Basque Country

Alberto Contador makes it four career titles in Basque Country (Colin Flockton)

Stage 6, April 9: Eibar - Eibar, 16.5 km

Alberto Contador dealt the fatal blow to his rivals today in the sixth and final stage of the Vuelta al País Vasco, carrying off the ITT stage win and the general classification triumph in one fell swoop.

Contador dominated the climb to Arrate as surely as did the deity of local folklore who ascended the mountain in just three steps, then down the iconic puerto he flew in a textbook-perfect descent of a wet and sinuous parcours.

Both Henao and Quintana put up a good fight. “They told me over the radio that I had some pretty big gaps,” said Alberto. “They told me that I had more than 50 seconds on Henao and twenty-some on Quintana – and he was way back in the GC.

“More than anything, I was thinking about the GC, but in the end I was also able to win the stage. I did’t want to make any mistakes and end up on the ground. That was the worst thing that could’ve happened. When opportunity knocked, we pushed it to the max, and so I managed to get the win.”

Contador has shined in all of his races this year, but has not, until today, managed to finish one off. He was third in the Algarve, second in Paris-Nice and second in Catalunya. “In all the races that I’ve ridden, I’ve felt well,” he said, “but a couple of them have eluded me by mere seconds, maybe because there was no time trial, or due to some other factors, but today I’ve gotten the victory and I’m very happy.”

Alberto continued: “The fans were crazy today at the time trial. I consider the Basque fans probably to be the best in the world and since my amateur days I have strong links to this place. For me it was a pleasure racing and winning the Vuelta al País Vasco. It's a very hard race, one that’s difficult to control and where a thousand things can happen. When I think about it, it still seems incredible that I won. I'd like to dedicate this victory to all the fans and to Oleg Tinkov for his support, his passion and for making this team a reality. This victory goes to him.”

Contador has now finished the season’s first block of races “in the best way possible. I got close in Paris-Nice and the Volta a Catalunya. In Nice I wasn’t able to win but the final stage left me with a great feeling. I think that it was a nice stage for all the fans, and I came here with the clear objective of getting the overall title. The other day I started thinking that there are quite a lot of races that I’ve won, of different types, but I’d never won the same one four times.”

As if today’s double victory were not enough, Alberto saved the best news for last. “I’m re-thinking my future and, maybe, we’ll continue a little while longer. We’ll see.”

Later he returned to the topic: “I’ve talked with the people close to me and we’re evaluating the possibility of continuing for one more year.”

When asked if this was his last Vuelta al País Vasco, he replied succinctly, “Certainly not.”

ACCORDING TO...

Sean Yates, Tinkoff DS: "It's been a long week, with the time trial looming at the end, and as we predicted it was always going to be the deciding stage of the race. Before this you have to bide your time, not lose time and take time where you can - this is exactly what Alberto and the team did here and it all came together today.”

"Alberto laid out his effort well today, he went really quick up the climb and had a good cushion there over the next riders over the summit going into the downhill - not only for the GC but for the stage too. Then when we saw Quintana was coming back he had to really go for it as we wanted the stage win along with the GC.”

"He's in great shape and deserves this win after his second places in Algarve, Paris-Nice and Catalunya. We had a few injuries and illness coming into the race and lost three guys along the way but the team stayed solid. Things played into our favour this race, and never taking the leaders jersey worked for us, as we didn't have to ride and defend. And now the stage win is the icing on the cake.”

"It's Alberto's fourth win in this race, and as always he dedicated a lot of time and effort to be in great shape. The whole team is really happy with the result today."

Sergio Henao (SKY), 2nd place overall: “The climb was very hard, and then the descent, with rain, very dangerous. Contador risked it, too, it’s his way of riding: with pride and honor. He’s a great rider. El señor Alberto Contador is a great rival.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 6, 1st (29:13). Contador in GC, 1st (22:44:43)

TOP TEN: 1 Contador, 2 Henao (0:12), 3 Quintana (0:37), 4 Pinot (1:13), 5 Rodríguez (1:22), 6 S. Sánchez (1:29), 7 Costa (2:19), 8 Spilak (2:47), 9 Craddock (2:52), 10 Kelderman (3:14)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CONTADOR DROPS RIVALS ON USARTZA

April 8, 2016 - Alberto moves to 2nd overall, just 6" behind Henao going into final ITT


Contador and Henao collaborate in Stage 5

Alberto Contador and Sergio Henao worked together to drop the other favorites in the Stage 5 finale (Colin Flockton)

Stage 5, April 8: Orio - Arrate (Eibar), 159 km Alberto Contador attacked with authority on the road to Arrate today in Stage 5 of the Vuelta al País Vasco, launching himself toward the finish line at a pace that only Sergio Henao could follow. Henao managed to catch Contador’s wheel on the slopes of Usartza, then the two set up a smooth collaboration that netted the leader’s jersey for the Colombian and second place overall for Contador, just six seconds back. Diego Rosa won the stage after a long solo escapade.

“It was an extremely hard day, one of those that really illustrates just how tough cycling really is,” said Alberto after the stage. “It was a stage for staying attentive at every second, even more than ever because of the tremendous downpours and the terrible cold that we had to endure. The pace was fast, and the most important thing was to stay bundled up to keep warm, and to eat correctly.”

Kelderman, Landa, Quintana and others suffered significant time losses on the day. Aru crashed out, Dan Martin abandoned, but Contador was strong. “My team always responded perfectly and were excellent at protecting me,” he said. “There were a few hectic moments at the end, but what’s good is that I moved forward and was able to take time on some of the favorites. However, the GC remains totally open.”

The daunting 16.5-km time trial at Eibar tomorrow will decide who wears the txapela on the final podium. The first half is uphill towards Arrate over a steep path via Azitain, with sections of up to 22%. Alberto said, “Now, everything relies on my legs functioning well in the time trial, and we’ll see what kind of result we get.”

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "It was a cold day out there as expected, but it was a big day in the race and a big one for the team. The boys really worked hard today. Michael Valgren worked well before the third-to-last climb to keep the pace up for Alberto. On the top of that climb Roman Kreuziger was just behind the group with Alberto and Robert Kiserlovski there, but he already worked hard yesterday and didn't manage to get back to it.”

"Now it’s all down to the tomorrow's race. We've already looked at the first part of the climb for tomorrow, and the descent goes down today's final climb. It's a decent climb and then a technical descent, being fast with an average gradient of over 9% average, and it will be very technical if it's wet again. We will wait and see what tomorrow brings."

Sergio Henao, new race leader: “I’m very happy because I’ve fought very hard every day to wear the leader’s jersey and, finally, I’ve got it. When Alberto and I went, we wanted to gain time going into the time trial tomorrow and we worked well together.”

Nairo Quintana, 2013 winner: “Not just Arrate: The whole race was very hard. The weather conditions all day were difficult, and because of a little carelessness, I got quite cold. I paid for it in the end. I rode my own pace after Contador and Henao’s attack, I knew that I was riding close to my limit, and I knew that if I went with them in the end I'd blow up. I followed my own pace to minimize losses."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 5, 3rd (3:13 Rosa – 4:19:15). Contador in GC, 2nd (0:06 Henao – 22:15:24)

TOP TEN: 1 Henao, 2 Contador (0:06), 3 Pinot (0:10), 4 Rodríguez (0:12), 5 S. Sánchez (0:31), 6 Quintana (0:38), 7 Craddock (1:00), 8 Kelderman (1:07), 9 Costa (1:09), 10 Reichenbach (1:11)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CONTADOR ON THE PROWL

April 7, 2016 - Alberto ready to pounce on opportunities as Samuel Sánchez breaks long dry spell in Basque Country Stage 4


Contador on point in Stage 4

Alberto Contador on point in Stage 4 (Colin Flockton)

Stage 4, April 7: Lesaka - Orio, 165 km

Alberto Contador maintained fifth place and even picked up a second today in Stage 4 of the Vuelta al País Vasco, although, in the end, the day was not his. Contador was constantly on the prowl in the difficult late kilometers, sizing up his rivals, answering and initiating attacks. His springiness out of the saddle, easy accelerations and chary descending on twisting wet roads say good things about his condition, both physical and mental.

However, the hero in today’s absolutely cracking finale was Samuel Sánchez. After more than 1,000 days without a victory, the stars came back into alignment for the Asturian ex-leader of the now defunct Basque Euskaltel-Euskadi team. The demon descender attacked Contador and Quintana in the final kilometers and escaped on the last descent. He beat it for the finish line with the best of the professional peloton hot on his heels. That the victory came as a blessing showed on his face as he posted up.

Contador finished in the same time as Sánchez, no harm, no foul.

“It was a complicated day due to the rain, which fell intermittently all day,” Alberto explained after the stage. “Besides that, the start was pure madness: no breakaway was formed until kilometer 80. The average speed was very high despite the fact that we had been over several climbs, and that made for a hard day.”

“On the final ramps of Aia, we gave it a try, but with the rain and the painting on the road it was hard to ride out of the saddle. We got over the summit with a gap, but there was little mutual agreement and in the end we were caught by the main group,” he said.

Alberto continued, “There was no change in the GC, with the exception of Landa losing a few seconds. This was one more cumulative effort for the legs, which will have its consequences. Tomorrow will be another hard-fought stage and people are going to try to get into the breakaway because they know that there’s a chance that it will make it to the finish line.

“On the other hand, we’ll have to see how it goes in the play for the GC. There will be a few opportunities to create time differences. Arrate is a tough climb but it’s hard to get any distance, so I hope that the differences are slight. Everything will be in play in the time trial.”

Wilco Kelderman took over the leader’s jersey, Landa sank to third place. Contador’s indispensable gregario Tosatto abandoned, but super domestique Roman Kreuziger more than earned his keep.

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "Alberto was feeling good, he knew the last climb and tried to get away after some good work by Roman Kreuziger. Roman was on a good day and helped to make it really hard in the front group in the final, and the other guys also worked hard to stay in position to prepare for the climbs.”

“We are down to five now though as Matteo Tosatto left the race, he was just empty today and got dropped early in the day when the speed was really high so there was no coming back. Tomorrow is going to a be a hard day and we'll see what we can come up with. The responsibility is still off us to control the race so we can make our own strategy and hopefully we can be in the best possible position ahead of the final time trial."

Samuel Sánchez (BMC), stage winner: “I saw that people were on the limit. Contador attacked, Quintana answered him, they opened a gap. Then Henao caught their wheel. I bridged to them and, I didn’t think about it, I attacked them with everything I had to try to leave them behind.”

“At my age, you enjoy everything much more. I’m close to quitting the bike, maybe this year, maybe next year, and doing this at age 38, I think, makes it worth even more.”

“It’s the eighth stage that I’ve won in my Vuelta, because in the end, it is my favorite race, in which I’ve won, I’ve made the podium three times, and which I enjoy the most, since I grew up here – as a person and as a cyclist – so for me, it’s like home. Winning today, in front of all those who were here, after the traumatic disappearance of the Euskaltel-Euskadi team, which was a huge blow for everybody, it’s a dream come true for me, and it seems incredible that with all my experience and all the years that I’ve spent on a bike, it’s made me emotional to the point of tears.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 4, 7th (s.t. S. Sánchez – 4:13:12). Contador in GC, 5th (0:10 Kelderman – 17:52:48)

TOP FIVE: 1 Kelderman, 2 Henao (0:04), 3 Landa (0:07), 4 S. Sánchez (0:08), 5 Contador (0:10)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


ANOTHER DAY IN BASQUE COUNTRY

April 6, 2016 - Contador stays safe and saves strength for Friday and Saturday stages


Pack finish in Stage 3

Alberto Contador finishes safely in the pack in Stage 3 (Colin Flockton)

Stage 3, April 6: Vitoria-Gasteiz - Lesaka, 193.5 km

Alberto Contador spent Stage 3 of the Vuelta al País Vasco riding easy in the pack. The peloton enjoyed a respite from bad weather in the longest, and as Contador put it, “one of the calmest" days of this edition. He finished safely in the pack behind stage winner Steve Cummings. There was no change in the top places in the GC.

The action finally heated up over a set of three climbs in the final 35 kilometers. A strong escape group got away, out of which Dani Navarro launched a swashbuckling attempt at the stage win. But it was Cummings, firing on all cylinders, who just managed to outrun the peloton to the line.

Unlike the adventurers, Contador’s concerns were of the main pack and the GC men. “The finale was fast because there were teams interested in the group arriving together,” said Alberto, “and others who insisted on moving the race. We had to be well-positioned so we stuck to the front. We were able to spend the whole day like that, without any problems.”

Contador expects more of the same tomorrow, and even though worsening weather conditions might detract from the calm, he hopes to save his strength for the next two key stages. “I think that it will be Friday and, above all, the final time trial that will define the race,” he concluded.

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 3, 16th(s.t. Cummings – 5:01:57). Contador in GC, 5th (0:11 Landa – 13:39:35)

TOP FIVE: 1 Landa, 2 Kelderman (0:01), 3 Henao (0:05), 4 S. Sánchez (0:09), 5 Contador (0:11)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


PAÍS VASCO: CONTADOR MOVES TO 5TH IN GC

April 5, 2016 - Alberto has good legs, but says no to spending himself towing the favorites’ group in Stage 2 finale


Contador reaches for support after steep Basque Stage 2 finale

Alberto Contador reaches for support from the barrier after the steep Stage 2 finale (Colin Flockton)

Stage 2, April 5: Markina-Xemein – Baranbio-Garrastatxu (Amurrio), 174.3 km

Alberto Contador moved into fifth place overall today in Stage 2 of the Vuelta al País Vasco after finishing among the best on the explosive final climb. The Tinkoff leader opted out of leading a chase to catch the two-man breakaway that attacked on the final slope and launched Mikel Landa to a stage win on home soil. Contador did, however, accelerate out of a select group and managed to gain a few seconds on most of his direct GC rivals.

“It was a difficult stage, mainly owing to the weather, since it rained in the first part and was pretty cold,” said Alberto. “We knew that we had to be well-positioned towards the front on the final climb and that’s what we did,” he said in reference to the tricky entrance to the finale, an abrupt exit from the highway onto a steep, narrow track.

When Landa and Kelderman attacked, the main GC men stayed together in a knot, eyeing each other. “During the ascent nobody took any responsibility. I felt good, but I was reluctant to assume all the responsibility and to do the pulling in order to catch up to the two escapees. That’s why I decided to wait,” Alberto said.

“I think that I was wrong in Catalunya to take too many things upon myself, so I was a little more leery of doing that here,” he explained.

Looking strong and smooth, Contador did strike out to catch the two, but he sat back and was, in the end, the fifth man to reach the finish line, behind Landa, Kelderman, Henao and Samuel Sánchez. The biggest names – Quintana and Purito, for example – lost time to him. “At the end, we lost a few seconds to some riders,” said Alberto, “but what I take away from the day is that my legs are there and the race is still open.

“It’s always best to have a few seconds of advantage, because that way it’s up to them to get back that time. There are still three stages ahead of us, and the final time trial. Even though we have to take the race one day at a time, taking into account the weather conditions, I think that the time trial will decided the Vuelta al País Vasco.”

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "The finish was really tough - really steep and every man for himself. The boys put all their efforts into getting Alberto Contador into position, and he was at the front as the road kicked up. Then there was the early attack of Kelderman and Landa, and not much interest to pull from behind. Alberto took up the chase early on but didn't want to do all the pulling so they ended up getting a gap.”

"What Landa and Kelderman showed was very impressive. But the pressure is with them now to control the race and to defend the jersey. I think we're still in a good position for the overall with some tough days ahead and then the difficult final time trial, and there are lots of riders in the same time at the top.”

"Unfortunately we lost Sergio Paulinho today - he was just empty. He came into the line-up at last minute, and did a strong ride yesterday but didn't have anything in the tank today. We had some horrible weather early in the stage, cold and wet, and so he stepped off the bike. The other guys all did a strong job. Jesper Hansen was already better than yesterday and we hope he can improve further tomorrow as he also comes back from sickness.”

"Tomorrow has a bit of an easier start compared to the other days. Then in the final we have some climbs and tricky descents so we have to stay attentive and be aware of the situation on the road."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 2, 5th (0:11 Landa – 4:43:17). Contador in GC, 5th (0:11 Landa – 8:37:18)

TOP FIVE: 1 Landa, 2 Kelderman (0:01), 3 Henao (0:05), 4 S. Sánchez (0:09), 5 Contador (0:11)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CONTADOR REVS HIS ENGINE IN BASQUE COUNTRY

April 4, 2016: Alberto starts his campaign for a fourth career title in the Vuelta al País Vasco


Tinkoff lead the pack in rainy Basque Country

Tinkoff lead the pack in chilly Basque Country (Colin Flockton)

Stage 1, April 4: Etxebarria - Markina-Xemein, 144 km

Alberto Contador rode aggressively today in Stage 1 of the Vuelta al País Vasco, accelerating off the front to test his legs and to keep a tight rein on any significant moves from his rivals. Luis León Sánchez (Astana) won the stage after sparking a duel with countryman Dani Navaro (Cofidis) that came within a whisker of being stomped out by the peloton at the line. Contador finished safely in the pack in spite of appearing to motion for assistance in the final kilometers.

“I felt good today in spite of the first day always being the most difficult for getting back into race mode, especially when you get here following a week of rest after Catalunya,” said Alberto after the stage. “I feel like I’m in pretty good form. The team also did well today, and protected me at all times. We always had the stage more or less under control.”

Rain, the mixed blessing that both creates slippery roads and quells Contador's allergies, is forecast throughout the week. The midday showers at the start line came as no surprise. “The day started out wet, but, fortunately, we got lucky and later there were dry conditions,” said Alberto. “In general, I’m happy with the day, and now the most important thing is to avoid catching cold and to recover for tomorrow, when we’ll have an important day.”

About tomorrow’s finale, Alberto said, “Tomorrow we have the first summit finish, but, honestly, I’m not sure what might happen. I saw that it has a tough profile but I don’t know what factors could break the race. Obviously, we’re going to have to be on guard, with the goal of not losing time, because as we’ve already seen in Paris-Nice and the Volta a Catalunya, every second is really important.”

How does the competition stack up in Basque Country? Contador is playing his cards close to his chest. “There’s no doubt that the roster is top-notch, with some very strong riders who’ve come here with the intention of winning,” he said. “We’re going to have to wait and see our position.”

ACCORDING TO...

Sean Yates, Tinkoff DS: “When an early break went, we contributed to the chase together with a few other teams and always kept the lead under 3:30 minutes, so it was under control. On the final climb Navarro was strong and kept going after an attack, and Luis Leon joined over the top with the two of them just staying away. Behind, Alberto finished in the front group with Roman Kreuziger.

"At the end of the stage there's no time bonuses at this race so that's not something we have to deal with, so all favourites are still in the same situation ahead of tomorrow, which is another day.

"Sergio did a good job today on his first race back (from injury) - when you're riding on the front you have extra motivation and was good to see him back in action, while Jesper Hansen is still recovering from sickness and did what he could to survive here. Thankfully the weather turned out well today. It was raining at the start but it did clear up and wasn't too cold. Potentially tomorrow could be a different picture but we will be ready.

"Tomorrow will be much different and at the end we'll be doing our utmost to win the stage. Astana will have to control the race now they have the lead and it's a question of being at the right place at the right time, principally at the end when we hit the final climb. We've recce'd the stage, and the finish is evil - 2.7km averaging over 13% so it's going to be very, very hard.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 1, 24th (s.t. LL Sánchez – 3:54:21). Contador in GC, 24th (s.t. LL Sánchez – 3:54:21).

TOP THREE: 1 LL Sánchez, 2 Navarro (s.t.), 3 Gerrans (s.t.)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


NO GAINS ON VOLTA’S LONGEST DAY

March 26, 2016 – Contador finishes tense day safely, looks for the way to win tomorrow


Alberto Contador looks to make his mark in Stage 6

Alberto Contador looks to make a giant mark in Catalunya Stage 6 (Colin Flockton)

Stage 6, March 26: Sant Joan Despí - Vilanova i la Geltrú: 197.2 km

Alberto Contador survived Stage 6 of the Volta a Catalunya today after hours of rapid and tense riding in the pack. The only real chance to take back seconds on race leader Quintana occurred at the first intermediate sprint, at kilometer 10, but other ambitious riders, including Dan Martin and Romain Bardet, got there first.

“Nevertheless, the race is far from over,” said Alberto at the finish line. “It’s true that Nairo Quintana is ahead, but tomorrow we have a stage in which a great many things could happen. With Movistar and BMC attacking constantly today, it was very difficult to control the race. However, I feel very satisfied with the form I find myself in this year.”

After a breakaway was established, the race proceeded according to a familiar pattern: Escapees scooped up points and bonuses in the intermediate contests, and were later scooped up themselves by the peloton, this time very near the end. Davide Cimolai of Lampre was the surprise winner of the day; Contador’s team brought him safely to the line.

The Volta ends tomorrow in a short stage of 138 kilometers that will send the riders up and down the climb at Montuïc (3rd category) eight times within 50 kilometers. “We’ll see what happens tomorrow,” said Alberto. “It’s a demanding circuit and anything could happen. We’re going to do everything possible, but I don’t think I’ll be the only one. There are other riders all within a few seconds of one another, and tomorrow’s stage will be a free-for-all.”

Only seven seconds separate Contador and Quintana. Picking up a scant few seconds at the sprint points early in the stage is a possibility, but pulling off a victory after eight trips up Montuïc will be tricky indeed. “It’s a shame that the profile tomorrow isn’t suited for attacking from a distance,” said Alberto. “If we had the right parcours we could launch an attack earlier. That will be very complicated tomorrow.”

“I’m very happy with my condition, and regardless of whether or not we win, my preparation for the Tour de France is coming along perfectly. I’m optimistic and very motivated about the Tour.”

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: “It was actually a hard stage, fast and with quite a lot of wind so the bunch was splitting up quite a lot at times and you always had to be aware of the situation.”

“The team kept Alberto close to the front when the pressure was on to the finish, and it sets up an interesting final day tomorrow. Unfortunately we lost Jesper Hansen this morning with fever so he couldn't start, meaning we were down to six, but the team did a really good job again of keeping Alberto out of trouble.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 6, 21st (s.t. Cimolai - 4:35:13). Contador in GC, 2nd (0:07 Quintana - 23:07.41)

TOP SIX: 1 Quintana, 2 Contador (0:07), 3 Porte (0:17), 4 D. Martin (0:18), 5 Van Garderen (0:27), 6 Bardet (0:31)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS, PHOTOS


AIR-TO-AIR COMBAT ON PORT AINÉ

March 24, 2016 – Contador puts up a beautiful fight, but the day is Quintana’s




Stage 4, March 24: Bagà - Port Ainé, 172.2 km

Alberto Contador slugged his way to within 8 seconds of the leadership today in a ferocious dogfight on the slopes of Port Ainé in Stage 4 of the Volta a Catalunya. Until the final two kilometers the fighting aces merely snarled and circled, but from that point on it was war. Contador took all comers, but in the final duel it was Nairo Quintana who made the decisive move. The Colombian is now the race leader.

“In the final kilometers I tested Daniel Martin, who, you could see, was already on the edge,” said Alberto from his seat on the rollers after the stage. “Then Van Garderen attacked and opened a pretty big gap on us. He just kept going. I gave it a big push to catch him.”

Alberto then returned the favor, and distanced the American as the other GC men nipped and swirled. “Then Porte took off,” he continued, “then Quintana... then I gave it a try. But at a certain moment, Quintana upped the pace and held it. I tried to catch my breath, but by the time I did, it was impossible to catch back up.”

“I had the chance to put myself into the leadership but, never mind, I can only congratulate him,” Alberto said.

The high mountains are behind them now, so any bid for victory will have to rely on strategy. "We'll have to see from here on,” continued the Tinkoff leader. “Movistar has a great team and it seems difficult to catch them out. Now I have to recover, and we're already thinking about the days that are left."

Note: The stage was won by Thomas De Gendt, the surviving member of the day’s breakaway. And, Porte appeared from nowhere and pipped Contador at the line, robbing him of a few bonus seconds that would have made the margin to Quintana even narrower.

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "It was a real close and tight finish, and the situation was always changing with the bonus seconds available. For a long time there were three riders ahead on the climb, so no bonus seconds available. Then by the end there was six and four which was more important. Alberto worked hard to bring Tejay van Garderen back, but in the final Quintana was too strong. And then Riche Porte beat him on the line, which was a pity as he would have been four seconds closer on GC – but he put a strong ride in today.

"Pawel Poljanski was sick and so he stopped the race. He was dropped early on the climbs and it didn't make any sense to keep pushing on so he stepped off. Jesper Hansen did a really good job today which was great to see - when Sky sent a rider up the road he started working to bring the gap down, and did a really good ride there."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 4, 4th (1:23 De Gendt - 4:52:04). Contador in GC, 2nd (0:08 Quintana - 19:01:43)

TOP FIVE: 1 Quintana, 2 Contador (0:08), 3 Porte (0:17), 4 D. Martin (0:24), 5 Van Garderen (0:27)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS, PHOTOS


ASCENDING THE CLASSIFICATION

March 23, 2016 – Contador climbs to GC second at La Molina in Catalunya Stage 3




Stage 3, March 23: Girona - La Molina (Alp): 172.1 km

Stage 3 of the Volta a Catalunya today turned out to be a good day at the office for Alberto Contador, who latched on to a glory-bound attack by Dan Martin and finished second, collecting some bonus seconds and distancing all of his direct rivals. Alberto is now second overall, only six seconds behind the new race leader, Martin.

Contador, still recovering from a cold, looked good but not great at the freezing summit of La Molina, but nevertheless managed to outstrip all but the Irishman. “At the end, unfortunately, the stage win was not possible,” he said afterwards. “However, I’m happy, even if I didn’t feel great today and I wasn’t riding comfortably. In spite of everything, I was there in the attacks and on my toes in the finale, and was able to get second place.”

“The important thing now is to see how I recover going into tomorrow,” Alberto continued. “I came here with a cold from Paris-Nice and in that sense it’s positive. The worst is over, otherwise I couldn’t have gotten this result. Anyway, I don’t think we can draw many conclusions from today’s climb. We were in a group, a strong wind was blowing, and the climb – with the exception of the first three kilometers – was pretty doable.”

What about the queen stage tomorrow? Two hors-categorie climbs, among others, are on the docket Thursday in Stage 4, which ends at the summit of Port Ainé. “Tomorrow’s stage, in principle, is better adapted to my characteristics and we’re going to try to do better. Daniel Martin is a strong rider and he knows what it’s like to win on tomorrow’s ascent, since he won the GC there in 2013. It’s no surprise that he won today either, so that he’s now the best-placed in the general classification. Even so, I think that Martin has the best options for the GC right now,” Alberto concluded.

ACCORDING TO...

Sean Yates, Tinkoff DS: “It was the first mountain stage today, with nice weather and a good test. The early break went and the lead quickly grew to 10 minutes, then behind, Sky took control and rode the whole day. There was a counter attack later on but it was a controlled stage behind until the final kilometres. All the action really came under the one kilometre banner at which point it was every man for himself - Alberto went toe to toe, and came up just short of the win.”

“There's now a six second gap, and the GC will come down to tomorrow, being the last summit stage after which final days only offer up some time bonuses. All in all it was a good result for Alberto. The guys did a good job during the stage, and it was a case of following the pace as long as possible in the wheels. We're happy with the performance, and tomorrow will be tougher which should be to our benefit - so all is still to play for.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 3, 2nd (0:02 D. Martin – 5:00:27). Contador in GC, 2nd (0:06 D. Martin – 14:08:18)

TOP FIVE: 1 D. Martin, 2 Contador (0:06), 3 Bardet (0:08), 4 Van Garderen (0:12), 5 Quintana (0:19)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS, PHOTOS


CALM BEFORE THE STORM

March 22, 2016 - Contador gets through safely, Bouhanni wins again.


Alberto Contador in Stage 2 of the Volta a Catalunya

Alberto Contador in Stage 2 of Catalunya (Quique García)

Stage 2, March 22: Mataró - Olot: 178.7

It was another day, another dollar for Alberto Contador today in Stage 2 of the Volta a Catalunya. The Tinkoff team kept him safe throughout another stage that, judging by the result (a second deft victory by Nacer Bouhanni) was just like the day before. Contador finished in the pack in the same time.

Alberto was under the weather during the week between Paris-Nice and Catalunya, so now he is monitoring his condition as the parcours toughens. "I feel in good form, even if it's too soon to draw any conclusions after two flat days,” he said after the finish. “Tomorrow starts a different race, the mountains, where we'll see the first time differences."

"I'm going to have to see how much I've recovered since Paris-NIce, and how I feel. My health is better every day, and that's positive. I still feel a little congested, and I hope that it doesn't cause me any problems," said Alberto.

Today’s stage was somber. The terrorist bombings in Brussels in the morning that killed and maimed many left a mark on the race. After observing a moment of silence at the start line, the peloton went forward with a strange calm reminiscent of the terrible day that the cyclists formed a cortege for Wouter Weylandt, the Belgian rider who was killed in the 2011 Giro. Today the Belgian teams wore black arm bands.

Tomorrow will be different. The race begins in earnest with a route peppered by four first-category climbs, ending with La Molina (Alp). According to Contador, "La Molina is unpredictable and you never know what's going to happen. It's not an especially taxing climb and I think that the time differences will be slim."

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen De Jongh, Tinkoff DS: “It was another pretty straight forward day today, with no surprises and everyone getting through safe. With the stages to come we didn't want to use too much energy, so it was a day of keeping out of the wind and looking after Alberto before tomorrow and making sure that we didn't lose any time.”

“After a small break went clear Cofidis took responsibility and won the stage again so hats off to them. And our guys did a good job in sticking to what they had to do.”

“Tomorrow we will see what happens - it's the first stage where the GC riders will play their hands, and we're ready for this with Alberto. The guys are motivated, only Pawel Poljanski is still suffering from a bit of sickness but we're hoping that he'll fight through and come good for the second half of the week. So we're just looking forward to tomorrow's stage now.”

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 3, 23rd (s.t. Bouhanni - 4:39:10). Contador in GC, 25th (0:20 Bouhanni - 9:07:41)

TOP THREE: 1 Bouhanni, 2 Swift (0:14), 3 De Gendt (0:14)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS, PHOTOS


ROLLING IN CATALUYNA

March 21, 2016 - Contador safe home in the pack in Stage 1


Stage 1, March 21: Calella - Calella: 175.8 km

Alberto Contador survived Stage 1 of the Volta a Catalunya today, The Tinkoff boys kept Contador to the front and safe from the start line to the bunch sprint and victory by Nacer Bouhanni.

From sunny Calella on the coast, the race set out on a long loop into the mountains where the riders faced narrow, twisting roads and an early spring rain. They descended back through nasty conditions into the sun, and there were attacks, and there was a bunch sprint - the first day.

ACCORDING TO...

Sean Yates, Tinkoff DS: "It was largely a straightforward stage today - a few guys went away early on and everything was kept under control by the peloton as other teams were looking for a sprint. This meant that we could sit back and look to keep Alberto Contador safe. It was complicated by a bit of rainfall on the downhill of the last climb where the bunch split considerably, but the guys stuck around Alberto and were up the front.

"As expected the race came back together after this and when the counter attacks came it always looked like ending in a bunch sprint." "The only mishap was that Matteo Tosatto had a puncture which was unfortunate as he was looking after Alberto in the finale, but it worked out fine and the guys stayed safe."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 1, 44th (s.t. Bouhanni - 4:28:51). Contador in GC, 47th (0:10 Bouhanni - 4:28:41)

TOP FIVE: 1 Bouhanni, 2 Swift (0:04), 3 Impey (0:06), 4 Vervaeke (0:07), J. Moreno (0:08)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS, PHOTOS


ALGARVE STAGE 5: CONTADOR WINS ON MALHAO

February 21, 2016 - Alberto gets third career win on iconic climb and podium place to boot




Alberto Contador attacked and dropped everyone on the final climb today in Stage 5 of the Volta ao Algarve, taking his third career win on the Alto de Malhao.

The decisive stage win bumped him up to 3rd place overall.

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 5, 1st (4:24:47). Contador in GC, 3rd (0:26 Thomas - 18:34:15)

TOP TEN: 1 Thomas, 2 J. Izaguirre (19), 3 Contador (0:26), 4 Pinot (0:34), 5 Roglic (0:49), 6 Gallopin (0:50), 7 Zakarin (1:03), 8 Pantano (1:04), 9 Aru (1:25), 10 Amaro (1:27)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS






ALGARVE STAGE 4: SPRINTERS' STAGE

February 20, 2016 - Contador finishes in the pack, Kittel wins again


Stage 4, Volta ao Algarve

Alberto Contador and Jesús Hernández at work (Tinkoff)

Stage 4, Saturday, February 20: S. Brás de Alportel – Tavira, 187.3 km

Alberto Contador arrived safely in the pack five seconds behind the sprinters' group today in Stage 4 of the Volta ao Algarve. Marcel Kittel took his second stage win of this edition, while Contador and the other GC men focused on staying safe.

Now, all eyes are on Sunday´s summit finish at Malhao, where Contador has won twice. He said, "The confidence that I have in my form is growing every day and I feel that my condition is on the uptick. It's true that I'm not satisfied with my result in the second stage, but I've gone without competing for many months, so it was something that I knew could happen. We have to take each day as it comes, and we'll see what we can do tomorrow."

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen de Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "It was a long day and like I already said there was going to be a bunch sprint. There was a lot of control from Etixx-Quickstep for Marcel Kittel and Tony Martin and at the end it was Kittel that took the stage. Our guys worked well to keep Alberto in a safe position, and that was it. Tomorrow is an interesting day because we have a top mountain finish and we're motivated for this."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 4, 42nd (0:05 Kittel - 4:46:35). Contador in GC, 10th (1:07 T. Martin - 14:08:57)

TOP TEN: 1 T. Martin, 2 Thomas (0:03), 3 J. Izagirre (0:20), 4 Gallopin (0:46), 5 Pinot (0:47), 6 Roglic (0:52), 7 Machado (0:59), 8 Zakarin (1:04), 9 Pantano (1:05), 10 Contador (1:07)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


ALGARVE STAGE 3: TILTING AT THE WIND

February 19, 2016 - Alberto shows step-by-step improvement in blustery ITT


Stage 3, Volta ao Algarve

Alberto Contador in the Stage 3 ITT (Bettini/Tinkoff)

Stage 3, Friday, February 19: Sagres – Sagres, 18 km (ITT)

Alberto Contador put in a strong performance in the Stage 3 ITT today in the Volta ao Algarve, in spite of windy conditions at the southwestern tip of Portugal. The 18-kilometer mostly-flat stage was won by Fabian Cancellara, but Contador showed increasing form, finishing 13th and managing to climb to 10th overall. Tony Martin finished 2nd and moved into the leader’s jersey.

"It was a very, very windy time-trial and the heavier riders could use spoke-front wheels," said Contador. "I had to use a 40-mm rim depth for more stability. When I went to recon the route this morning with a deeper depth, in the end I had to focus more on avoiding being blown away by the wind. We tried a 60-mm rim depth and a tri-spoke wheel, but after 10 kilometers I had to change the wheel since it was getting too difficult for me. Then I opted to go with less depth in order to focus on the race and not worry about crashing.”

The danger of a wind-induced crash was no joke. Luis León Sánchez began the day in the yellow jersey, but a gust of wind caused him to crash heavily on the irregular pavement in a roundabout while riding flat out to defend the leadership. The Murcian had to abandon and was taken immediately to the hospital. He received stiches to a deep cut on his chin, but luckily avoided any broken bones.

Contador got off to a solid start, passing the intermediate check in fifth place, 26 seconds off the pace of Cancellara. “The first part went quite a bit better because it was more or less uphill, and being lighter gives you a slim advantage, maybe a couple of percentage points,” said Alberto. “However, the heavier riders were able to gain time in the second part, slightly downhill and at a faster pace. That's where they gained time on me," he added.

"I didn't feel bad physically today, obviously, but not excellent, either," he continued. "I recovered well from yesterday and I think that I´ll ride quite a bit better in the final stage than yesterday. Sunday's stage is straightforward. It will be quite explosive, and we have see how we perform tomorrow and what form we have on Sunday. We don't have any options on the GC, so we'll see if we can aim at a stage win.”

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen de Jongh, Tinkoff DS: “In the time-trial we had two riders that went full gas, Michael Valgren and Alberto Contador. Michael finished in 29th place so he was okay considering the competition here, and Alberto in the end took 13th, and if you look at his rivals, I think he did a very decent time trial. It was very hard with the wind and with a quite flat parcours and little climbing, I think he did his best. Tomorrow will be a stage for the sprinters, so we're going to try to save some energy, because the last stage is quite hilly".

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 3, 13th (1:03 Cancellara – 20:57). Contador in GC, 10th (1:07 T. Martin – 9:22:17)

TOP TEN: 1 T. Martin, 2 Thomas (0:03), 3 J. Izagirre (0:20), 4 Gallopin (0:46), 5 Pinot (0:47), 6 Roglic (0:52), 7 Machado (0:59), 8 Zakarin (1:04), 9 Pantano (1:05), 10 Contador (1:07)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


ALGARVE QUEEN STAGE A BELLE DAME SAN MERCI

February 18, 2016 - Alberto gives it a try, but the legs say no


Tinkoff hammer away in Stage 2 of the Volta ao Algarve

Alberto Contador and team in command (EFE)

Stage 2, Thursday, February 18: Lagoa – Fóia, 200 km (summit finish)

Alberto Contador and his Tinkoff team drove hard in an attempt to break the race over the penultimate climb today in Stage 2 of the Volta ao Algarve. Contador was first over the Alto da Pomba with his eyes on a summit-finish victory at Fóia, but the effort proved too much. He flagged in the final kilometer and finished in 21st place, 24 seconds behind stage winner Luis León Sánchez.

Contador philosophically analyzed the factors that held him back. “It was a complicated stage and very hard. I think that it’s obvious that I still lack a little rhythm. The finale was hard due to the strong wind. When the race accelerated in the final kilometer, I couldn’t follow and I lost time. Now I have to keep improving how I feel physically,” he said.

“There are riders with better legs because they’ve competed. Nevertheless, the Volta ao Algarve is serving as preparation for Paris-Nice, where my goal is to get a good result. I feel pretty much how I expected to feel. The work that we did in Tenerife was focused on power, and what I lack is race rhythm. That is precisely what I’m here for,” he said.

He admitted that it might have been a mistake for the team to shoulder so much responsibility in the peloton. “We wanted to keep the escape under control as a means to fighting for the stage win, but, in retrospect, it was probably a mistake to be in front all day with these wind conditions. Probably we expended more energy than necessary.”

“On the penultimate climb, I tried to make the race a little harder because the group was pretty large, but it was difficult to break the race with so much wind,” he said.

On the docket for Stage 3 on Friday is an 18-kilometer time trial. “We’re going to tackle a time trial and, even though it will be long and flat, it will be a very useful training session for my upcoming objectives,” Contador concluded.

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen de Jongh, Tinkoff DS: "Today the team worked hard to put Alberto in a good position. It was a very tough day with a lot of wind of course, and in the finale Alberto was super. The result was not what we hoped for, and he was a bit isolated because some riders left him a bit earlier than weplanned. It wasn't a top day but some of our riders did their work really well, that was good work. Tomorrow, we have a time trial and Alberto wants to have a good race. We will see how it goes."

Sean Yates, Tinkoff DS: "I think Alberto was going well, but he took too much wind. It was a long day, a very windy day and he tried his way until the final climb, but in the end the strongest man won and he was excluded. We had hoped for better."

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 2, 21st (0:24 LL Sánchez - 5:08:25). Contador in GC, 20th (0:34 Sánchez - 9:00:50)

TOP FIVE: 1 LL Sánchez 2 Thomas (0:05) 3 Roglic (0:09) 4 J. Izaguirre (0:13) 5 Machado (0:15)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


ALGARVE STAGE 1: CONTADOR SAFE HOME IN PACK

February 17, 2016 - Kittel wins crash-ridden finale


Stage 1, Wednesday, February 17: Lagos – Albufeira, 187.6 km

Alberto Contador's 2016 season got off on the right foot today in Stage 1 of the Volta ao Algarvez. He negotiated the tricky lead-in to the bunch sprint and finished in 29th place, avoiding several crashes in the final kilometers. Marcel Kittel won the day.

42nd Volta ao Algarve Alberto, a veteran of many campaigns, took the jittery finale in stride. "It was a good day," he said, "taking into account that it's one of the first races of the season and that there's always a little tension. With a peloton of almost 200 riders, the race can be tense. So there were some crashes, but, luckily, Tinkoff wasn't affected."

"It was windy, but that didn't cause many problems," he continued. "Last year, the beginning of the Ruta del Sol was pretty similar, with accidents and crashes."

Contador's first contact with the mountains in 2016 comes quickly - tomorrow, buffered only by today's rolling hills. Thursday's final climb to Fóia is a 7.5-km effort at 6.6% average gradient that comes after a 200-km day's work. It could see a show by the GC men, but the time for serious action might come later.

"It's not very hard, one of the climbs before it is even more gruelling," Contador said, "and there's a headwind at the end, so I don't think it will influence the GC very much."

"Yesterday, we reconned tomorrow's stage and I expect it to be tough," he said, not to take any summit finish lightly, "although, in my opinion, the main hopefuls for the general will reach the finish together. We're going to have to wait for the time trial and the final stage to see how the general takes shape," he said.

That final stage ends with the Algarve's signature climb to Malhao, where Alberto has won twice. "I like it better because it could be possible for a pure climber to open a more of a gap than a cyclist who climbs well." Nevertheless, he thinks that the Friday ITT could see "bigger time differences."

ACCORDING TO...

Stephen de Jongh, Tinkoff DS: “Today, for us, it was a stage where the goal was not to lose time in the general classification. It was obvious that the sprinter teams would take control of the stage and that we would have a bunch sprint. Luckily the wind was not very strong. The team worked hard to keep Alberto in front and the guys did a very good job again. There were a lot of crashes but we were able to stay out of trouble.”

Some notes on the GC men: Astana, lead by Fabio Aru, is riding shorthanded due to the loss of two riders to illness. He and Contador have not met in a race since the Giro, although Alberto said "We sometimes do see each other training around Lugano. We´ll see what his condition is like."

Purito Rodríguez of Katusha is nursing a painful throat infection and, depending on how he gets through the night, may not start tomorrow.

RESULTS: Contador in Stage 1, 29th (s.t. Kittel - 3:52:35). Contador in GC, 29th (0:10 Kittel - 3:52:25)

TOP THREE: 1 Kittel, 2 Greipel (0:04), 3 Stuyv (0:06)

COMPLETE CLASSIFICATIONS


CONTADOR RACES TOMORROW

February 16, 2016 - Alberto kicks off the 2016 season in Portugal


42nd Volta ao Algarve Good news! Alberto Contador returns to competition tomorrow, stepping up to the plate for the first time in 2016 at the 42nd Volta ao Algarve (February 17-21).

The reigning Giro d'Italia champion will take his first sampling of form on a bracing parcours that includes a double dose of summit finishes and an 18-km individual time trial.

The rivals, as well as the route, will make this five-day tour worth following. Pitted against double-winner Contador, who triumphed here in 2009 and 2010, is another double champion, Tony Martin (2013, 2011), as well as Michal Kwiatkowski (2014) and Geraint Thomas (2015). The peloton at large will boast an especially fine mix of all types of rider: grand tour hopefuls, classics men, time trial specialists, and sprinters.

Contador will be accompanied by a strong Tinkoff squad: Jesús Hernández, Sergio Paulinho, Matteo Tosatto, Michael Valgren, Robert Kiserlovski, Ivan Rovni, and Yuri Trofimov.

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