Sánchez weighs in on Armstrong-Contador situation

Olympic road race champion Samuel Sánchez believes the 'circus' surrounding Lance Armstrong's return to competition will be beneficial for Alberto Contador's Tour de France preparations.

"He is the best Spanish stage racer and I know he is very motivated for this year's Tour de France," Sánchez told Spanish sports daily Marca.

He can focus more on his training while the media-hype surrounds Armstrong, according to the Euskadi-Euskaltel rider. Sánchez took out Sunday's GP Llodio, his first victory since last August's Beijing Olympic Games road race.

"This whole 'circus' that surrounds Armstrong favours Contador; it eases the pressure and allows him to work more relaxed and focused," said Sánchez.

Sánchez also spoke of his own goals for 2009, which he hopes culminates in October's UCI World Road Championships. "I hope we can add to the success of the Olympic Games with success in the World Championships."