After missing the Tour de France due to a gastrointestinal infection, our Ecuadorian rider had set his sights on a comeback at the Vuelta a España. But following a stop-start recovery, Richie, together with our medical staff, decided to delay his return to racing to ensure he can reach his very best.
“After the illness I had, I had to stop several times as I couldn’t train for more than two or three days at a time,” said Richard. “Now in Ecuador, I’m trying to get back to normal with training and continue moving forward with what we had planned. I’m almost fully recovered now.”
While recovery hasn’t been easy, Richie knows there are still plenty of opportunities left this year. With the Italian classics and World Championships in Rwanda on the horizon, he has rediscovered his spark and is eager for what’s ahead.
“Now, the next goals we’ve set are the Italian classics, especially Il Lombardia, and also the World Championships in Rwanda,” said Richard. “It’s a very special World Championship for me, where I have a big opportunity, and I want to prepare for it the best way possible. That’s why I came to Ecuador: to do some altitude training, regain motivation, and focus 100 percent. Certain factors play in our favor, and we want to make the most of them.”
After winning the Olympics and stages in all three grand tours, pulling on the rainbow bands would be the crowning achievement of an already illustrious career. We’re excited to see our Ecuadorian condor soar again this fall.