Nairo Quintana always looks for success on the biggest stages, with his biggest goal being the Tour de France in 2016. But the Colombian also appreciates riding at home, something he is often unable to do. So the Tour de San Luis and Colombian National Road Race form an important and special part of his season.

“The primary target is the Tour de France, I will try to be in good shape so that I can fight for the overall victory,” he says. “The Olympic Games and La Vuelta are secondary objectives, but they are also of importance,” Quintana said in a press statement.

Quintana also spoke about the fond memories he has of riding the Argentinean race, where he has begun his season for the last three years.

“I have very good memories of the race,” Quintana added. “I have participated in the Tour de San Luis twice: the first time I won and the second one I was third overall. It is a beautiful race as it is held in the Argentinian summer. The weather is perfect to get ready for the season.”

He can win again, with two tough uphill finushes and a team time trial, which should allow Movistar to use their strength to beat the local pros and more out of shape WorldTour teams.

The Tour de San Luis takes place from January 18-24 and the Colombian national road race is on February 7.