Alberto Contador to remain with Astana for 2010

Contador had a successful but troubled year riding for Astana

Tour de France winner Alberto Contador has confirmed he will remain with the Astana team until the end of 2010.

He had spoken to rival teams after a successful but troubled year, marred by cash problems and a tense relationship with former team-mate Lance Armstrong.

The Spaniard, said: "I'm happy because it was time to resolve my future."

Contador, 26, had already reached a preliminary deal and confirmed the agreement after Astana were awarded a ProTour licence for next year.

The team are the subject of an investigation after suspect medical material was seized during the Tour.

Reports in France claimed that syringes and transfusion equipment believed to belong to teams including Astana were found in medical waste containers during the race, but Astana have denied they are one of the teams involved.

606: DEBATE Your thoughts on Contador and Astana

Contador said: "I had reached a pre-agreement with the team, but everything depended on the licence.

"Given the circumstances of the last few months, I think at the end of the day I've taken the best decision possible.

"The only thing I can guarantee now is I'll fight 100% for the Tour de France."

In the summer, Contador and seven-time Tour winner Armstrong made little effort to hide their dislike for one another, despite being team-mates.

Contador said his relationship with Armstrong was "zero", with the American hitting back saying his rival "had a lot to learn".

Armstrong added: "If I were him I'd drop this drivel and thank his team. Without them he doesn't win."

Armstrong has now set up his own outfit, Team Radio Shack, with his long-standing manager Johan Bruyneel and two of Astana's top riders, compatriot Levi Leipheimer and German Andreas Kloden, set to follow him.