Nairo Quintana has recorded some low-key performances in his first races of 2014 on European soil following his perfect start to the season with an overall victory in the Tour the San Luis, but Colombian climber claims to be ready for his first real test as he was appointed a Team Movistar leader for Tirreno-Adriatico.

Quintana claims he didn’t shine during his first appearances in European races this season – Vuelta Ciclista a Murcia, Clasica de Almeria and Roma Maxima – as he aimed to slowly find the right pace while returning to the Old continent, but now he is ready to face the stiff competition in the first of Italian World Tour stage events.

Tirreno-Adriatico will be the first big objective and test of a disposition for the 23-year old Colombian, as the race often called a little Giro d’Italia serves as a perfect preparation event for the Italian grand tour’s main contenders, following the changes of its route recently applied by RCS Sport.

On the eve of the Race of the Two Seas, Quintana was complacent about his current disposition and confirmed his ambition to finish the race high in overall standings, as he can rely on a “very strong team” dedicated to fully support him as a Movistar’s sole leader.

Being confident about his own chances, young Colombian acknowledged difficulties of the route and presence of many strong contenders, especially pointing out to Alberto Contador and Richie Porte, whose versatility should be an important factor on parcours consisting both individual and team time trial.

The Tirreno-Adriatico 2014 kicks off on Wednesday, March 12th.