"I will continue to be linked to the world” - Alejandro Valverde discusses future Movistar role

He may have hung up his boots and retired from professional cycling but we haven't seen the last of Alejandro Valverde at Grand Tours according to the great man himself, "Yes I will be in the car at some races. For example, the idea is to be, among others, in Giro, Tour, Vuelta."

Operating as a link between the riders and the directors and coaches, Valverde hopes to use his vast experience to help the next generation of Movistar Team riders in their bid to emulate him, “It is very important that a rider like him is on the bus or in the car, with his experience, so that in difficult or tense moments he can contribute"

Away from the road, Valverde also hinted at exploring the possibility of trying gravel racing if the opportunity arises "would like to be in gravel racing and things like that, although I still haven't taken a good look at it. It will be to have a sporting goal and have fun" the 42-year-old said. "Maybe, without so much insistence or discipline, but my training mornings are not going to be touched.”

One of those hoping to live up to the standards set by Valverde is Enric Mas. On the possibility of his former mentor sticking around, Mas was full of praise " That at almost 43 years old he is there with us… and we know what it is like to train with him, that he will go to the maximum. For the youngsters he is a motivational extra”.