Thibaut Pinot targets stage wins and mountains glory at the Vuelta a Espana

FDJ.fr rider Thibaut Pinot has revealed that he is targeting success in the King of the Mountains competition at this year's Vuelta a Espana, which begins on August 23.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed a break since his strong showing at the Tour de France this year, where he finished third in the general classification and won the best young rider award.

"I'm looking forward to the Vuelta," Pinot told reporters.

"I just love this race, I'll be able to go to the Vuelta with no pressure and ride for a stage win and the King of the Mountains competition.

"I've had a two-week break. I went for a holiday and I rode three criteriums. On August 11, I resumed training but I don't feel like I'm back in a good shape yet."

The Frenchman finished seventh in last year's Vuelta a Espana, which was won by Chris Horner.