Alberto Contador has announced he will retire from professional cycling following the Vuelta a España.
The 34-year-old Spaniard, one of only six riders to have won the Tour de France, Vuelta and Giro d’Italia in their careers, confirmed the news in a video message on Instagram.
He said: “Hi all. I’m doing this video to inform you about two things. One is that I will be participating in the next Vuelta a España, from 19 August, and the second is that will be my last race as a professional cyclist.
“I’m saying this happy, I’m not saying it with sadness. It’s a decision I’ve thought about very well and I don’t think there is a better farewell than in my home race, in my country.
“I’m sure they will be three fantastic weeks, enjoying all of your affection, and I can’t wait. Greetings and see you on the road from August 19th.”
Alberto Contador retires
Winners of all three grand tours
Jacques Anquetil (TDF: 1957, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964; Giro: 1960, 1964; Vuelta: 1963)
Felice Gimondi (TDF: 1965; Giro: 1967, 1969, 1976; Vuelta: 1968)
Eddy Merckx (TDF: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974; Giro: 1968, 1970, 1972, 1973, 1974; Vuelta: 1963)
Bernard Hinault (TDF: 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1985; Giro: 1980, 1982, 1985; Vuelta: 1978, 1983)
Alberto Contador (TDF: 2007, 2009; Giro: 2008, 2015; Vuelta: 2008, 2012, 2014)
Vincenzo Nibali (TDF: 2014; Giro: 2013, 2016; Vuelta: 2010)