22/08/2023

Rigoberto Urán speaks out about Nairo Quintana and Miguel Ángel López not being able to compete; You will be surprised by his words

In a cycling context full of uncertainty for two of Colombia's most recognized names in road cycling, Rigoberto Urán has offered his perspective on the situations involving Nairo Quintana and Miguel Ángel López.

The journey of Nairo Quintana and Miguel Angel Lopez in 2023 has not exactly been what they had hoped for. Nairo, due to his positive for tramadol, has not been able to secure a place in a team for this season. On the other hand, Lopez, who was competing, was forced to stop his participation due to a precautionary suspension for a doping case issued by the UCI.

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When questioned about the situation of his colleagues, Urán said: "I've been racing in Europe for almost 16 years, we haven't seen any problems. In reality, many times, even if you're inside the circle, you don't know what's going on. Many times you don't understand. But yes, it's clear that they are two very strong riders."

Urán highlighted the impressive record of victories of both riders and the influence they could have on the new generation. "They have an incredible track record, among the riders who have won the most races, and yes, we need them. With them there would also be more kids who could be inspired, because really when we are racing, the kids are watching us, so it motivates them."

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The Colombian cyclist also reflected on the importance of maintaining competitiveness in Colombian cycling and pointed out the need to create more technical races to measure performance.

"Now those results, which are like for decades, for centuries. Now we see the Danes winning medals. We had a time when we did not get off the podium of the biggest races and, obviously, that cannot be, it cannot end because there are many seedlings, many children of 12 or 13 years old who practice cycling, and schools come out. I have always said that we have to have more technical races. How can you measure how good you are, with the best, right?"