Armstrong hits back at Contador over 'drivel'

Published on Tuesday 28 July 2009 22:43

LANCE Armstrong has hit back at Alberto Contador by describing the Spaniard's latest criticism of him as "drivel".

The pair both race for the Astana team, and the rivalry between them was thinly disguised during this year's Tour de France, which Contador won with Armstrong in third.

On his return to Madrid on Monday, Contador gave a press conference at which he revealed: "My relationship (with Armstrong] is nil. He's a great champion, and he had a great race in this Tour, but it's something else on a personal level, where I've never had a great admiration for him, and I never will.

"On this Tour there have been more tough days in the hotel than in the race itself."

Armstrong, who returned to professional racing in January after four years in retirement, had hinted at criticism of Contador's go-it-alone tactics during the race and made his feelings clear on his Twitter feed. The seven-time Tour champion said: "Seeing these comments from AC, if I were him I'd drop this drivel and start thanking his team. Without them, he doesn't win."

He continued: "A champion is also measured on how much he respects his team-mates and opponents. There is no 'I' in 'team'. What did I say in March? Lots to learn. Restated."

The rivalry between the two is likely to increase next year with Armstrong confirming last week he will leave Astana to head a new Radio Shack team next season.

Contador is also set to move teams after hinting he was unhappy with Astana refusing to back him as leader above Armstrong before the race.