In the absence of Alberto Contador, Luis León Sánchez won the Spanish time trial championships in Villarrobledo, over a course of 36.8km. Sánchez's time was 43'34. He was 41 seconds ahead of Jose Ivan Gutierrez Palacios and 58 seconds ahead of Ruben Plaza Molina. All three ride for Caisse d'Epargne.
It was the second time trial title of Sánchez. "Today's race was a good test for the next Tour de France. I feel well prepared for the event." The course was to his liking. "The parcours, with long straights, was great for my characteristics. I managed to go in a good rhythm throughout the race against the clock."
His whole Caisse d'Epargne team was strong. "Having the references from my teammates who went earlier was a big help and the result gives me a lot of motivation for the next races."
Costa wins in Portugal
Rui Costa, who also rides for Caisse d'Epargne, won the Portuguese Championships in Santa Maria da Feira. The race was 40.5km, Costa's time was 51'43. Sergio Ferreira Sousa was second, 33 seconds back, Mario Jorge Faria Costa 35 seconds.
Costa realized recently that he was doing well. "In the Tour de Suisse I already was on good form, with a stage victory." Costa won the eighth stage in Switzerland. "Today I tried to measure my efforts for the entire 40km. I am proud to be able to wear this national championships jersey starting now."