Quintana enters new phase in career, and criticizes Colombian government

Quintana is, after Urán, Colombia's most famous cyclist. He is one of the most successful cyclists in the country's history, with overall victories in the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España and three podium finishes in the Tour de France. His popularity has earned him enormous popularity, which he also sometimes uses well. For example, he is socially involved and was awarded the Order of Democracy Simón Bolívar, a prestigious award.

During his speech, Quintana, smartly dressed in a suit and with the charisma of a politician, seized his moment. Addressing the Colombian government directly, he raised an issue close to his heart: the stagnant development of Colombian cycling. For years, there has been an increasing gap between the resources available to young talents in Colombia and those of their European counterparts. According to Quintana, the government needs to do something about it.

"With so many problems in our country, I invite you to support us now. We see big budget cuts for athletes and the Ministry of Sports. But no one seems to notice, no one knows anything, no one talks about it. Historically, in Colombia, we have always resisted difficulties, and we still do - not only on the bike to get results and represent our country, but also by standing up for our young people," said the Colombian climber.

Quintana would like to see young climbers continue to have those opportunities, but they are now under threat. However, whether the request will be heeded remains to be seen. In any case, it does make a valid point. Without the proper support, it becomes increasingly difficult for Colombian talents to match the European cycling talents. In Europe, professionalization, even among the youth, is progressing and will not stop. Hopefully, things will change. Because in a country that breathes cycling like Colombia, a new generation of heroes is expected.

Quintana also tells CiclismoAlDia about his future, and it is a surprisingly realistic picture. "In this new career phase, it is my turn to share experience with young people. As in every life cycle, there comes a moment of maturity, and you have to reinvent yourself," the Colombian says wisely.

What that reinvention looks like remains to be seen precisely. Quintana otherwise looks positive on his comeback year. "It was a good season, with ups and downs. At least a strong final series in Italy. I'm looking forward to starting the new season in Spain in February. The goal for 2025 is to ride both the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España." In the Giro, Quintana is eager to hunt for a stage again, something he almost managed to do during stage 15 this year. He will also have to do his share of work for Enric Mas in the Vuelta.