Astana Pro Team General Manager Alexandr Vinokurov has made the following statement in regard to untrue rumors created in Spanish newspaper AS on Thursday concerning the departure of Vincenzo Nibali at the end of the current season :

"There has never been a question that Vincenzo Nibali will leave the team at the end of the season. Vincenzo is doing very well in the team.

"Of course I am not happy when we don't win, as is the case with all team General Managers, But I merely think that Vincenzo is not riding at his best level in this Tour.

"Nibali has a potential that is much better than his current place in General Classification.

"We are going to do medical tests to determine the reason for his performance, and we also wish to see him race in the Vuelta a España this season to achieve a Grand Tour victory.

"There is no problem between him and the Team, and we have full confidence in him, contrary to what is being reported in the press."