Contador looks to Vuelta after Tour exit

Alberto Contador says the reality of his exit from the Tour de France is still sinking in as he seeks specialist care for his broken shin.

Alberto Contador (pic) says the reality of his exit from the Tour de France is still sinking in. (AAP)

Former Tour de France champion Alberto Contador has arrived in Madrid to treat his injured right leg in a bid to race the Spanish Vuelta.

Contador, a two-time winner of cycling's biggest race, broke his shin in a violent fall on Monday to leave the Tour at the 10th stage.

Contador was still grappling with his early exit on Tuesday, saying: "I couldn't sleep last night thinking this situation wasn't real but, when I opened my eyes, I could see it was."

The 31-year-old Spaniard immediately went to a local hospital upon arrival to see a doctor specialising in such injuries.

Contador showed intent but also scepticism that he could heal in time for the August 23 Vuelta, with surgery still a possibility for the Tinkoff-Saxo Bank rider.