Cristian Delle Stelle was 15cm away from a very big win for the small Team Idea when he was beaten into second by Simone Ponzi in today's Milan-Sanremo warm-up, GP Nobili Rubinetterie. The Italian was frustrated to have thrown away a great opportunity to prove that he belongs in the professional ranks.

After three years with the Bardiani team, it was a step down for 25-year-old Cristian Delle Stelle when he was forced to sign a contract with the continental Team Idea at the end of the 2013 season. However, he has been eager to prove that he belongs at the top level and has been flying right from the beginning of 2014.

One month ago, he won the GP Izola to get his new season off to a perfect start and today he was close to a much bigger win when he finished 2nd in the GP Nobili Rubinetterie against all the top professionals. Having survived the two climbs on the route, he was beaten into second in the final sprint by Simone Ponzi and he regretted his missed opportunity.

"We cannot waste opportunities like this," he said. Unfortunately, with 400 meters to go, there was a small gap and I was in 8th or 10th position. At that point, I couldn't do anything else than try to do a long sprint and surprise everyone.

"I was hoping to make it but in the end Ponzi edged me out by just 15cm. I know I can play a role aginst the professionals and now I start to show it even though I ride for a continental team. Now i go to Coppi e Bartali to chase another win."