While an exceptional talent of Carlos Betancur remains unquestionable, many put his professionalism and ability to adapt to European lifestyle in doubt following his controversial behavior last season. The 25-year old Colombian aims to make up on a lost time and prove that he deserved to be given a second chance by his Ag2r-La Mondiale squad.

Betancur will kick of his 2015 season at the Tour de San Luis in Argentina – just like he did last year – but will follow a slightly different schedule from that point on, as the Giro d'Italia will be the main objective for the first part of the year. Explosive Colombian admitted that returning a race programme which turned out to be successful for him in 2013 should significantly help in finding his rhythm again.

„It's a great race,” Betancur said about the Tour de San Luis during the official press conference. „I'm having a great time here and remain close to my home county. It serves me as a good preparation for test awaiting me on the European soil.”

These tests more particularly are going to be Tirreno-Adriatico, Volta a Catalunya, Vuelta al Pais Vasco and Tour de Romandie, as young Colombian revealed at the same press conference.

Turning his attention to short-term goals again, Betancur obviously revealed his will to fight for stage victories in Argentina and finish high in the general classification of the event.

„I intend to finish high in the general classification and win a stage,” he said, according to Biciciclismo. „This will also allow me to reach a good level while arriving to Europe.”

The 25-year old Colombian was due to debut at the Tour de France last year, but missed the French Grand Tour in controversial circumstances, which still remain slightly enigmatic. Even though the route of the 102nd edition of the event – with is first week tailor made for Ardennes specialists and reduced kilometers of time trialing – should suit Betancur perfectly well, he will have to wait for his first time with la Grande Boucle at least one year longer. Last season's Paric-Nice winner will line-up as the Ag2r-La Mondiale captain at the Giro d'Italia, while the French duo of Jean-Christophe Peraud and Romain Bardet target the Tour.

„I will focus on the Giro d'Italia, which I have very good memories with. I want to improve on my results there and in the Vuelta a Espana.”

While Betancur impresses as one of the most talented riders of his generation, his inability to lead a proper life of professional athlete has already become infamous. The 25-year old Colombian insists, though, that he has undergone a fruitful preparations during last winter-period and is perfectly healthy.

„My health is good,” he clarified. „I strive to make up for lost time.”

Asked about an upcoming rivalry with Nairo Quintana (Movistar), Betancur acknowledged a class and impressive palmares of his younger compatriot, but remained confident about his own chances.

„He's an excellent rider and won San Luis last year, along with other important races like Giro d'Italia.”

„It's a beginning of the new season, however, and even though I have a great respect for him, I'm not afraid,” Betancur concluded.