Esteban Chaves Says He Will Focus On Giro And Not Ride 2017 Tour de France

Esteban Chaves says he will not ride the 2017 Tour de France but again focus on the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta Espana – the two Grand Tours he podiumed at this year.

OBE rider Esteban Chaves is in super form and will be aiming for a top General Classification finish at the year's Vuelta which starts on Saturday. — OBE rider Esteban Chaves has enjoyed a stellar 2016 placing on the podium at two Grand Tours and extending his OBE contract by 3-years.

Speaking to Colombian sports channel DeportesRCN, 26-yerar-old Chaves said time was still on his side and there was no rush to ride his first Tour de France.

“There are still a lot of seasons to do the Tour de France.” he said. “One day I will find a route suitable to my skills and then I will go there.”

Chaves said he was particularly fond of Italy and the Giro and eager to return.

“I have a special relationship with Italy,” he said. “I really like Italian cycling and I have many friends in Italy”.

‘Honorary Aussie’ Chaves enjoyed a stellar 2016 that included placing 2nd at the Giro and 3rd at la Vuelta along with winning Il Lombardia.

This year he also extended his Orica-Bike Exchange contract by a further 3-years, taking the partnership through to 2019.