Alejandro Valverde eyeing Vuelta a España after finishing Giro "with a good feeling"

Alejandro Valverde is so far this season being Movistar Team's most important rider, however with his retirement in sight, 'Bala' is also enjoying his last months in the professional peloton. His bold ride at the Giro d'Italia saw him often among the best, and he'll look to replicate that in the second half of the season.

"I'm glad I was able to finish my last Giro, just behind the top 10. We fought to the end for a win and I'm leaving here with a good feeling," Valverde shared on social media. The 42-year old didn't initially come to the Giro d'Italia with ambitions for the overall classification, but after Iván Sosa failed to perform in the mountains and the Spaniard rode a strong opening week, it became a goal to finish on the Top10 - besides fighting for a stage win.

His high position in the GC didn't prevent him from joining the break on stage 16 to Aprica, where he rode impressively in the high mountains to finish fifth, but besides that day he couldn't further contest stage wins. He was in the fight for the Top10 but finished just outside in 11th place, having struggled in the stage to Lavarone. He has nevertheless brought some important points to maintain Movistar Team's safety in the World Tour.

“Now it's time to rest, recover, enjoy and think about the Vuelta. Thanks to all the audiences in Italy and Hungary, and to those of you who follow me from home, for your support at all times," he concluded. Valverde is likely to return to competition at the national championships, before preparing for a final Grand Tour at home in the Vuelta a España.