Despite indicating earlier this week that he would not ride the World Championships Road Race in his native Spain, and that if he did ride, everything would be for Alejandro Valverde, Alberto Contador has been included in Spain’s preliminary squad for the event.

“The world championship course is not in any way suited to my style, and I think other riders who will be able to help more should go,” said Contador on Tuesday. “I prefer to give my place up to another rider.”

However, Spanish selector Javier Minguez said his obligation was to “select the best riders available” ahead of a final attempt to convince Contador to ride.

Minguez is expected to announce his final selection of nine riders early next week.