I did not join todayâ''s Vuelta stage and instead returned home. In yesterdayâ''s stage covering 175 km from Berja to Alto de Sierra Nevada, I again rode with the chasing group. It was a dignified way to put my second Tour of Spain behind me, finishing the tour early after the 14th stage on Saturday.

I wore the gold tricot for five days - longer than I thought I would. After losing the leader position, I hung back somewhat and reduced my speed.

The heat did me good although it tired me sometimes more than the actual course, but I am very satisfied with my performance over the last two weeks. The Vuelta was fantastic preparation for our upcoming title battles.

Nevertheless I felt that now was the time to head home. I cannot allow myself to let go too much, although I will treat myself to a few daysâ'' active recovery and will then start preparing for the world championships.

Now is the time to put the finishing touches to these preparations. Monday week I will already be setting off to Ticino to contest the time trials on Thursday, 24 September. I wish everyone a good start to the new week, Fabian.