Nairo Quintana, the Movistar climbing expert had cemented his commanding lead over Froome during the mountain stage on Saturday.

As per the custom, Froome did not challenge Quintana on the ride into the Spanish capital on the 21st and final stage. On Sunday Quintana added the Vuelta a España win to the his other Grand Tour list of wins whiched included the 2014 Giro d’Italia.

“It’s been tough, I won’t lie, especially on the back of the Tour de France and then going to Rio for the road race and time trial at the Olympics,” Froome told Eurosport. “Coming here, it means I haven’t had much time at home for the last three months. I’ve had a lot time away from the family.”

“I woke up this morning feeling like the winner but I couldn’t raise my arms in celebration until I crossed the finish line,” Quintana said. “This is probably the most important win for me, considering the scenario and who I was racing against. Froome is a great rival.”