"I would be happy, honestly" - Can Richard Carapaz make a return to Movistar after brilliant 2025?

Richard Carapaz has spent several years at Movistar Team and he does not rule out moving back in 2026. This year's Tour de France can have a big influence over his decision and the former Olympic Champion is now ready to aim for stage wins and potentially a KOM jersey as was the case last year.

"The first goal of the year has been achieved. I feel like I gave it my all. Now comes the Tour, with a different role: I won't aim for the general classification, but for the KOM classification or stages," he confirms in an interview with Marca.

In the past he has done the same, taking advantage of the more modest field at the Corsa Rosa to aim for overall success - having won the race back in 2019. He finished third in this year's edition, but often looked like the strongest climber, and was the rider who attacked the final week the most. It was a confirmation of his return to being a Grand Tour specialist after he also had a strong 2024 Vuelta. For over two years, he hadn't been able to contest a Grand Tour.

At the Tour, with a stronger startlist, Carapaz changes his goals and will be seeking success only in the mountain stages. "It's a more important race, with a higher level. The team knows my intentions and I believe in them".

In the conversation, his contract was also brought up, where he leaves open room for what may happen in the coming weeks. "We are still talking about it with the team. I will most likely continue, but I can't anticipate anything. In the next few weeks I will have clearer ideas".

Could Movistar even be a potential destination? "I have beautiful memories. I would be happy, honestly. For now I want to finish well with EF, but it could be an interesting option".