Spain regrets Freire's absence

World championships host nation Spain has always been a serious contender for the win in the men's road race, but this year national coach Francisco Antequera concedes that its chances are limited because of the absence of triple champion Oscar Freire and doubts over the form of 2003 world's runner-up Alejandro Valverde.

"With Oscar it would be easier because on a course with these characteristics he is faster than anyone and would have done well," Antequera told As. "The team that we have is not one for a mass finish, so we must look for another solution," he added.

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

Join now for unlimited access

Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1