Contador crashed twice during the opening week of the Tour and subsequently struggled to keep pace with the general classification contenders. Eventually, the Spaniard abandoned the Tour de France on stage nine, citing the effects of his crashes that also ruled him out of the Olympic Games.

Instead, Contador will attempt to win his fourth Vuelta title and will get there via San Sebastian and the Vuelta a Burgos between August 2-8. Contador’s recovery period was estimated to last four weeks, with the first two weeks consisting of nothing but total rest. That appears to have been shortened to only one week off the bike, however, as Contador has already resumed training in preparation for his forthcoming activities on his home soil.

Another general classification contender who might choose to ride the Spanish grand tour in the aftermath of the Olympics is Nairo Quintana, who has looked out of sorts at the Tour de France so far.

So far, Quintana has been unsuccessful in his attempt to seriously challenge Chris Froome, and his participation in the Vuelta would provide him with a shot at redemption and give a late boost to his season.

Chris Froome has also shown his intention to do the Spanish race. The Vuelta a España takes place from August 20 to September 11.