Quintana in urgent position to find new team, as Astana interest "is not true" Vinokourov confirms

Nairo Quintana is currently in a race against time. Following his positive tests for tramadol, contract discussions have become very complicated for the Colombian, who is yet to find a contract for 2023 and is unsure to find a World Tour team willing to sign him into the incoming season.

Quintana had just agreed on a new three-year deal with Arkéa Samsic, but was later found to have tested positive for the painkiller tramadol during the Tour de France - on two different days. Although he was not suspended, this saw his sixth place's points and result taken down, with his defense currently ongoing. However, his deal with the French team, where he was instrumental for the World Tour promotion into the incoming years, has been nullified.

Rumours surged over a possible contact with a World Tour French team, with Cofidis said to not be it, and AG2R Citroën Team denying any contacts. Groupama - FDJ have not publicly stated anything regarding the rumours, however in the past few days it was suggested that Quintana could link up with Astana Qazaqstan Team, a move that for many, made sense.

However, that is not quite the case. Being asked about it, team manager Alexander Vinokourov himself has confirmed there is no interest in the 32-year old. “At the moment, the team is completing its transfer campaign. In principle, we have already discussed and filled all positions within the team for next year. I also read the information that there would be interest in Quintana, but that is not true," he said.

Hence, the rope tightens around Quintana's future in pro cycling. Although he is not suspended, it is unlikely that any team will be willing to have a large cut of their budget in Quintana, specially in light of recent events.