Alberto Contador is looking in superb form ahead of the Tour de France in just three months, saying this is the best he has felt since his magical spring of 2014, where he won Tirreno and Pais Vasco, taking second in Catalunya and the Dauphine.

In 2016, the Spaniard on Tinkoff has won Pais Vasco again, whilst coming second in Paris-Nice and Catalunya.

“[2014] was the only year in the last few seasons when I arrived at the Tour well prepared, but then I had the fall," Contador told Marca. “Yes, this could be a comparable year to 2014. So far everything has gone well, I'm doing things in the best way that I can. I’m hopeful I can get to the Tour as I was back then, but have more luck…”

Speaking of his shape just now, he says he is very confident as he has faced many rivals yet in every race he has found better shape and has performed well.

“This year, it’s come down to seconds in the classifications, for things you can’t control,” Contador said. “My rivals have been changing in every race but my overall performance has been very good, I’m always up there fighting. Before the Basque Country, I was happy with my preparation and my feelings. I’d hit the post more than I would have liked, but physically I was going well and that's what excites you.”