Contador searches for strong squad

By Antonio J. Salmerón

2007 Tour de France winner Alberto Contador was present at the stage finish of yesterday's Vuelta a España. The 24 year-old is looking for a team, as his current team, Discovery Channel, is folding it operations at the end of the season.

"I would like to come to the Vuelta, but to win it," remarked the Spaniard to TVE yesterday in Ávila. "When I go to a race it is always for doing as well as possible, and for winning, because I always think about the victory."

The Spaniard has not yet selected a team for 2008 and beyond. "I will consider several factors, not only the economic ones, before deciding my new team. ... I have good offers in an economic sense, but it is necessary to consider other important aspects. Such as if [the team] is a strong one, and it offers guarantees to you."

Discovery Sports Manager Johan Bruyneel has been linked to Team Astana. Contador likes the idea of continuing with his Belgian boss, "it is good, and I would like to go with him," but clarified that "there are other factors to consider. I prefer a team in which he [Bruyneel - ed.] has freedom, and with strong riders."

Contador is enjoying watching his home tour on TV, and savouring his Tour de France victory. "I thought that winning the Tour would not change that much," he commented. "Now, they invite to me in the bars for coffee. Everybody knows me, and people greet me in the street."