Nairo Quintana tested positive for Tramadol during the Tour de France and, in contract year, it has proved to be a deadly mix for the Colombian's continuation in pro cycling. He isn't without offers however, as the Colombian Team Medellín - EPM has publicly offered to sign him.
“Nairo is our great representative of Colombian cycling to the world. For this reason, from Team Medellín EPM, we offer you to continue your sports career with us with a wide national and international calendar,” the team shared on social media - and, likely, to Quintana himself beforehand. “How proud it would be for Medellín for you to represent us.”
The Colombian team, home to former prestigious climbers such as Oscar Sevilla and Fabio Duarte, has a big presence in the wide South American scene. Quintana, currently at home in Colombia, may not return to Europe soon as his expected renewal with Arkéa Samsic was taken off the table and no other team has shown interest. Quintana is not suspended, however his lost case will make it tremendously difficult to grab a new pro contract in 2023.
“This is proving hard for him, but that’s when the great ones are forged," former pro Victor Hugo Peña said in a recent interview. “I confide in him, and he’s a strong guy, who’ll cry, wipe away the tears, and he will continue. I am positive he will not give up. What he has to do is speak with his legs, and do what he’s always done, this guy with a hard and strong face. Now is the time that he has to go forward, and that would be one of his most important victories.”
Update: In an interview with Telemedellín Quintana thanked but denied the offer from the Colombian squad.
Nairo es nuestro gran representante del ciclismo colombiano ante el mundo. Por eso, desde el Team Medellín EPM le ofrecemos continuar su carrera deportiva con nosotros con un amplio calendario nacional e internacional. Qué orgullo sería para Medellín que nos representes.
ATENCIÓN 🚨 Nairo Quintana respondió a la invitación del #TeamMedellin 🇨🇴🚴🏻 Via @Telemedellin #TMSports
