“It’s Been Such a Tough Year”: 33-Year-Old Columbian Cyclist Makes a Triumphant Return With a One-Year Deal

The world of cycling is adorned with blows and triumphs. Nairo Quintana pedals on the road of redemption, making his way back to Movistar. Previously, the 33-year-old Columbian Cyclist has served a season-long doping ban. 

Having the championship titles of prestigious races such as Vuelta a España and Giro d’Italia under his possession, the cyclist has expressed his immense gratitude for seizing the opportunity. The article chronicles the ebbs and flows of the life of the Columbian cyclist! 

A break in the cycling journey tests Quintana’s resilience

The professional cycling journey of Quintana has been packed with a lot of challenges. He underwent a fateful disqualification from the 2022 Tour de France owing to a doping scandal. As a result of this accusation, he was dropped by Arkea-Samsic and undertook an exile from the sport for one year.

CALPE, SPAIN – AUGUST 25: Podium / Nairo Quintana of Colombia and Movistar Team / Celebration / during the 74th Tour of Spain 2019, Stage 2 a 199,6km stage from Benidorm to Calpe / #LaVuelta19 / @lavuelta / on August 25, 2019 in Calpe, Spain. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)It was with the Spanish team, Movistar, that the cyclist reached the pinnacle of success. Hence, it was a homecoming experience for Quintana to receive this opportunity to return to the pro peloton and acquire the chance to rejoin the ranks.

In his interview with Eurosport, Quintana reiterated his experience during the distressing time, stating, “It’s been such a tough year. The sleepless nights, so many days of sacrifice, going on my bike and trying to keep pushing, under the rain or the scorching sun. But it was all worth it. I won’t waste this opportunity.”

Emotional reunion with Movistar

With this rekindled partnership, the cyclist commits himself to ensure that no stone is unturned in giving his level best in turn contributing to the success of the team. In an emotional conversation, Quintana gave a glimpse of his obligation towards the team, saying, “I know the values of the team, the values of sport. I will give my everything to do things right, and I want to help the team achieve the best results.”

Read More: Cyclist Removed From Asian Games After She Fails to Clear Her Doping Test

Quintana’s remarkable career in cycling suffered a massive blow when last year he tested positive for Tramadol. Even though he became the first cyclist to be sanctioned for using a particular drug that falls outside of the checklist prepared by the World Anti-Doping Agency, Quintana got charged as per the regulations formulated by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). The new chapter of his cycling journey, making a comeback in Movistar, will be marked by his strong performance, securing the second position twice at the Tour de France. 

As Quintana places his foot, grabbing the second chance with the emotional reunion with Movistar, cycling fans are eager to witness his triumph on the cycling track. The cyclist will be pedaling his way to the top as he had done before, defying all odds that came his way, demonstrating his passion for the sport. 

Watch This Story: Highly Discussed Jumbo-Visma-Soudal Merger Set to Leave Around 20 Cyclists Without Jobs