After failing to successfully conclude his bid for the maglia rosa at the 2014 edition of Giro d’Italia, Cadel Evans lined up at the Vuelta not as a BMC leader, but reliable lieutenant of Samuel Sanchez. Even though such exceptional situation could be treated as a part of his slow withdrawal from professional sport, the 37-year Australian turns down discussions about his retirement and claims to feel relieved to ride Grand Tour event without pressure.

“I actually come here with no big expectations, rather I’m the second guy for Samuel Sánchez,” the former Tour de France winner told Cyclingnews.

“I’m actually pretty calm about it all, I’ve got to find my way a little bit, because it’s been ten years since I’ve been to a Grand Tour without being expected to win it. It’s kind of nice.”

Evans performed really strongly at the Tour of Utah where he won two stages, but apparently the 37-year old Australian wasn’t convinced about his disposition enough to question Sanchez’ leadership at the Vuelta.

Asked about his plans for the future, the former Tour de France champion admitted that nothing has been decided yet in regards to his rumored retirement.

“I’m concentrating on riding well here and then looking at things after this Vuelta. I want to see how my body recovers and reacts in the third week before I make any firm decisions.”