Road: Leipheimer-Contador Go 1-2 In Final Vuelta TT

Astana Cycling Team scored again in Spain. Levi Leipheimer was the fastest rider in the 20th Stage of the Tour of Spain, an individual climb time trial to Alto de Navacerrada (17.1 K). For Leipheimer it is his 2nd stage victory in this race, his 8th of the season. Teammate Alberto Contador finished second, 31 seconds behind. In the General Classification Contador leads by 46 seconds to Levi Leipheimer. With only one stage and 102 K to go, Astana Cycling Team is close to a new big success at having their riders in first and second places overall. Moreover, Alberto Contador is close to writing history by being the first-ever Spaniard to win the Giro, Tour, and Vuelta.

“I never thought to take back 1.17 on Alberto, but I really wanted this stage victory,” commented a delighted Levi Leipheimer in Navacerrada. “I won two stages. Alberto did the same. We are one and two on the final podium. We showed that we are the strongest team in the world. In the overall GC I am 46 seconds behind Alberto, exactly the time he took with bonifications on me. Nevertheless, I honestly admit that Alberto Contador deserves the most this overall victory. He had to deal with all the pressure, three weeks long.”

Alberto Contador: “I had no super legs in the beginning of the time trial. From then on, I decided not to race for the stage win, but to consolidate my leader’s position in the general classification. I am proud to – probably - win this Tour of Spain. Since we knew in February not to be able to ride the Tour de France, this Vuelta became the main objective of the season. It caused a lot of stress, but when you accomplish the job, it provokes an indescribable feeling.”