Speaking at the pre-race press conference, Nairo Quintana says he is looking forward to riding once more after crashing out of the Vuelta a Espana, when he will defend his title at the Tour de San Luis.

"I'm looking forward to the race," Quintana said. "I don't feel bad but I'll have to see how I adapt to the rhythm of racing again and then I’ll see if I can be competitive here.”

"I will approach the race with tranquillity, because I've got a young team around me and I haven't raced in fourth months either, so we’ll have to see how it goes."

Quintana is also looking forward to a rare privilege: riding at home in front of South American fans, even if the race is in Argentina and he is Colombian.

"In Europe, it's colder right now so this is a better race to start the season, although I have other objectives later on. It's good to race in January as that gives you the opportunity to prepare a little better," he said, before nodding towards Carlos Betancur, who was seated alongside him. "Because Carlos and I are South Americans, we feel at home racing here."

With three summit finishes and a fairly short time trial, the route suits the Colombian, but he hasn't raced since the Vuelta four months ago now. Nonetheless, he is still the favourite. Stage one of the race should b a bunch finish today.