Armstrong hints at 2010 Tour race

Armstrong is back this year after a four year temporary retirement.

Seven-time champion Lance Armstrong has hinted he will compete in next year's Tour de France after coming out of retirement to ride in the 2009 event.

Asked if this would be his final Tour, the 37-year-old said: "Probably not. Probably not. Maybe one more Tour."

The Texan also confirmed rumours all is not well between himself and Astana team-mate Alberto Contador.

"The honest truth is that there's a little tension," he said. "Alberto is strong, and he's very ambitious."

Armstrong finished Sunday's ninth stage just eight seconds off the leading pace of Rinaldo Nocentini, an Italian riding for AG2R who is not considered a yellow jersey contender.

Spaniard Contador, the 2007 champion who started as the yellow jersey favourite, is second overall only six seconds off the pace ahead of Monday's rest day.

Armstrong said if the 26-year-old Contador proved his worth he would accept having to play second fiddle in the team.

"If he proves to be the strongest in the race, there's nothing I can do," he said.

606: DEBATE Just wondered if anyone else thinks Astana could end up filling the top three places in this years tour?? Bakehousefan

Meanwhile, Armstrong had an emotional reunion with the parents of his former Motorola team-mate Fabio Casartelli after climbing the Portet d'Aspet pass, where the Italian rider died in a crash during the Tour 14 years ago.

"We see each other once a year, sometimes more. They continue to be like family to me," said Armstrong. "For me, it's nice to see them, they're wonderful people and they're nice to be around."