Carlos Betancur entered the Vuelta a Espana short of condition and had hoped to ride himself into form during the first weeks of the race. However, sickness has hampered his performance and he is now doubtful whether he will reach his best level for the world championships.

Carlos Betancur has been a shadow of his former self in this year's Vuelta. Having dealt with personal problems, he had to cancel his participation in the Vuelta a Burgos and arrived at the Spanish grand tour knowing that his condition wouldn't allow him to battle for the GC. Instead, he hoped to ride himself into form during the first two weeks before targeting a stage win in the final week.

However, the Colombian has had a very difficult race so far. While there has been a slight improvement in his performance, his condition is still far from the level that would allow him to go for a victory.

Betancur now reveals that he has been battling health issues.

"The truth is that I have suffered much truth in this Vuelta," Betancur told Biciciclismo. "The condition was not the best and then I've been very sick. Until Tuesday, I have been taking antibiotics. Ever since the 4th or 5th stage, I've been sick and not been able to recover. It has taken courage to finish the race. I hope to get well through the last stages and finish the race with a good speed."

"During this third week I have felt better and I feel more comfortable in the bunch," he said. "In the second week I was more tired."

The second objective for Betancur was to prepare for the world championships whose hilly course suits the Colombian perfectly. His struggles have now put him in a doubtful mood ahead of the battle for the rainbow jersey and hopes that the Italian one-day races GP Costa degli Etruschi and GP Prato next week will serve him well

"I thought I would be much better," he said. "I do not know how strong I will be. After the Vuelta I want to do well in Prato and Cesenatico and then we'll see what I can aim for at the worlds. Hopefully, the sensations will be good and deliver me a morale boost. I will continue my training in Tuscany and Montecarlo."

Despite Betancur's travails, Ag2r has had a successful Giro with Domenico Pozzovivo who is currently 6th overall. Starting at 15.00 CEST you can follow today's stage on CyclingQuotes.com/live.