Richie Porte (BMC Racing) intends to start the Vuelta a España on Saturday, despite gastroenteritis which kept him away from the race press conference and team presentation.

On the same day that the Australian rider announced his two-year signing with Trek-Segafredo, his current team BMC confirmed that he would require rest and recovery ahead of the Spanish Grand Tour start.

Explaining the situation on Thursday, BMC’s doctor Dr. Daniele Zaccaria said: “Richie Porte woke up with some gastrointestinal issues this morning.”

“We have been monitoring him during the day, and although it is nothing too serious we feel the best thing for his recovery is to rest for the remainder of the day, which will mean missing the race press conference this afternoon and team presentation.”

The team doctor added: “Riche should be able to do a light training session tomorrow [Friday] and we expect him to be on the start line on Saturday.