Nairo Quintana will return to WorldTour racing with Movistar in February, but he's cautious about his prospects.
He's deeply motivated, yet aware that he won't be the same rider as before, given the rise of a new generation.
What happened to Nairo Quintana?
Nairo Quintana was disqualified from the 2022 Tour de France due to a positive test for tramadol.
He's been unable to find a team since, but Movistar has given him a chance to restart his career.
Why the caution?
Quintana, 33, feels that his age and the emergence of new talent will make it tough to replicate his past successes.
He's had a difficult year, and his last victory was the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var in February 2022.
What comes next for Nairo Quintana?
Quintana will support team leader Enric Mas and do his best to contribute to the team's efforts.
He's grateful to Movistar for the opportunity and is looking forward to racing again.
Nairo Quintana has 51 wins in his palmarès, but he's not expecting to add to that tally immediately.
He's focused on rebuilding his career and helping his team, rather than chasing individual victories.
The Colombian cycling scene needs a big-name star, but Quintana is aware that he can't be that rider anymore.
Times have changed, and he's not the same rider who thrilled fans with his wins in the past.
Nairo Quintana will begin racing again in February, and his progress will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
He's feeling motivated, but he's also aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
The road to redemption won't be easy, but Nairo Quintana is ready to take the first step.