'In terms of dribbling and technical ability, Messi is No. 1'

The renowned cyclist, who has won the Tour de France, the Giro de Italia and the Vuelta a España, heaped praise upon the Barcelona star during an awards ceremony hosted by the Association of Madrid's Sporting Press.

"Messi or Ronaldo?" he began, laughing. "They are completely different players. One is about power and strength, Ronaldo, and the other, Messi, who in terms of dribbling and technical ability is No. 1. They're both very good at what they do."

The intriguing thing about his comments is that Contador is an ardent Real Madrid fan. 

"Do I watch football? Yes, of course, I love the sport and I do follow it. Everyone knows who my team are. My dad has always been a Real Madrid fan, so, naturally, I am too," he explained.

Finally, Contador was asked about Real's chances against PSG in the Champions League and he responded in philosophical fashion, saying: "I always say one thing: desire is power."