He has remained high in the world rankings in recent months due to his ability in the one-day races rather than his efforts over the longer events.

He is arguably the best single-day Classic rider of the moment, following a second win at Liege-Bastogne-Liege this season.

In 2001, he placed second in the World Championships road race and won the Championship of Zurich.

The Italian is a powerful rider whose sometimes nervous style of riding belies his strength.

As a rider, he is continually aware of those around him and can sometimes lose his focus as a result.

This was never clearer than when he was Michele Bartoli's main assistant during a successful partnership, at least for Bartoli.

The two men have since fallen out after Bettini stepped out of the shadows during his former friend's long absence with injury.