In October, as the Tinkoff team competed in its final races, Tinkov attacked Contador, revealing in a final interview with Cyclingnews that the two never got on. The Russian team owner suggested Contador will be like 'a limping duck' after he decided to continue his career with Trek-Segafredo and not retire as initially planned. Tinkov also warned about Contador's entourage that will move to Trek-Segafredo for 2017.
Basso revealed to Gazzetta dello Sport that he has spoken to Tinkov and given his point of view. He denied there is a Contador clan that is difficult to manage.
"I don't agree. The point is that when a marriage ends, there are always some problems. Time will tell who is right. I've clarified my relationship and my point of view with Tinkov," Basso explained.
"Alberto is simply a guy who often forgets about the talent he has. He is still working hard with ambitious goals even though he's won everything time and time again. He's got the wellbeing that a career like his has given him but he lives for his sport."
Basso is convinced Contador has done the right thing by extending his career.
"There's no doubt about it. And he'll prove it. Oleg asked me the same question and I said: 'Nobody has the right to say to a rider like Contador when they have to quit'," Basso said.
"I don't want to enter into the details of their relationship but there's nothing wrong with riders being obsessed about a race. Being obsessed is what helped him win all that he has.
"For sure Alberto can win another Grand Tour. I've always said that he doesn't race against Quintana, Froome or other top riders, he races against himself."