This is the first Vuelta that I’ve really paid much attention to, even though RadioShack/Trek was excluded. Seems like a much more interesting course this year; none of those endless days through dry scrub with no signs of people like we’ve seen in the past. Finally, Spain looks like a place worth visiting!

As for Nibali, I think we’re looking at the future. He’s young, strong in the mountains, and doesn’t suck at time trials. If he gets strong support from his team, I’m thinking he’s potentially the equal of Andy Schleck, maybe better, for the GC in the Tour de France next year. I’m not convinced that Alberto Contador is unbeatable, just not sure who it is that’s likely to beat him. It could be Nibali.