Bettini wins again in Tour of Spain

Actualizado
  • 12/09/2008 02:00
Creado
  • 12/09/2008 02:00
SUANSES, SPAIN. Quick Step's reigning world champion, Paolo Bettini of Italy, claimed his second victory from this year's Tour of Spain ...

SUANSES, SPAIN. Quick Step's reigning world champion, Paolo Bettini of Italy, claimed his second victory from this year's Tour of Spain by winning the 12th stage here Thursday.

Spaniard Egoi Martinez of Euskaltel retained the race leader's gold jersey after the 186.4 km race between Burgos which saw title contender Alejandro Valverde lose time in the overall standings.

Valverde started the day in fourth overall at a minute behind Martinez but dropped out of the top ten to 11th at 4:19 adrift.

In the end, it left Spain's former Tour de France and reigning Tour of Italy champion Alberto Contador with a great chance of winning his third major Tour within 14 months.

Bettini had been part of a small leading group who were all jostling for position on the hilly finish to the line, but the Italian punched ahead in the closing 150 metres to beat compatriot Davide Rebellin.

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