Nairo Quintana Linked with 2023 Move to French Team

Nairo Quintana will leave Arkéa-Samsic at the end of the season, with a move to a French WorldTour team possible for 2023.

The Colombian announced his departure on social media, despite signing a three-year contract extension in August.

The deal was never signed, only agreed in principle, allowing Quintana to leave and find a new squad.

Arkéa-Samsic confirmed his departure, stating his contract would not be renewed in 2023.

Quintana's non-renewal is not linked to his ongoing tramadol case, according to the team.

He is still awaiting the outcome of his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over his Tour de France disqualification.

Quintana returned positive tests for tramadol on two stages of the race.

French newspaper *L'Equipe* linked Quintana with a French WorldTour team, citing sources close to the Colombian.

A contract proposal has already been made, with AG2R Citroën, Cofidis, and Groupama-FDJ possible destinations.

Quintana will not race again in Arkéa-Samsic colours, having ended his season at the UCI Road World Championships.

The 32-year-old has become a major name on the transfer market, alongside sprinters Mark Cavendish and Fernando Gaviria.

Dani Ostanek, Senior News Writer at Cyclingnews, reported on the developments, noting Quintana's unexpected availability.

Quintana's future remains uncertain, as he awaits the outcome of his appeal and considers his options for 2023.

The Colombian's departure from Arkéa-Samsic marks the end of a three-year stint with the ProTeam.

Quintana's next move will be closely watched, as he looks to regain his form and compete at the highest level.

The transfer market is set to be busy, with several high-profile riders still to decide their futures.

Quintana's situation is complex, with his tramadol case and contract situation still unresolved.

A decision on his appeal is expected soon, which will clarify his situation and allow him to plan for 2023.

The French WorldTour teams will be keen to sign Quintana, given his experience and ability.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Quintana's future, as he navigates the transfer market and awaits the outcome of his appeal.