The Coppa Agostoni which was a first key test for the Italians ahead of the Worlds, showed a Vincenzo Nibali in great condition. Being among the 14 preselected for the Worlds, the Italian was a protaginist and finished second after a 50km attack while riding in the Astana jersey-

The best-placed of the national team was Giacomo Nizzolo in fourth, beaten by Bonifazio in the sprint of the chasers for third place

2"Today the weather was very hard. I am not comfortable in these conditions. But I rode at home and the motivation was strong. I had positive feelings on the climbs but I was a mit too excited in the sprint which I should have done differently. I would have liked to be on the podium, but I found that the leg were good. Tomorrow it is another race where I will try to do well. And I thank the coach for the confidence he gave me by selection me among the 14 for the Worlds. I naturally I hope to be among the 11 to go to Richmond and to better sense what the spirit of the national Worlds team is."

Regarding the other riders from the team, Alberto Bettiol crashed. Even Gianni Moscon , one of the leaders of the national under-23 team in Richmond, fell twice, without serious consequences. He even tried to join the lead trio in the finale.'

Jacopo Guarnieri , who is also among the 14 selected for Worlds was not in a mix in a raxe that didn't suit him: "I suffered a bit with the rhythm after three weeks away from racing, but the legs are good. Tomorrow the race suits me more," he said. "I feel confident in my chances to get the call. Then, if the course is as it appears on paper I think I can be useful but of course it is up to the national coach."

Tomorrow, the 97th edition of the Coppa Bernocchi will be another key test. Afterwards regarding the team for Worlds will be made. The following riders will be riding for the national team:

Marco Canola UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling

Simone Consonni Team Colpack

Jacopo Guarnieri Team Katusha

Gianni Moscon Zalf Euromobil Désirée Fior

Giacomo Nizzolo Trek Factory Racing

Matteo Trentin Team Quick Step

Oliviero Troia Team Colpack

Federico Zurlo UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling

Reserves:

Alberto Bettiol Team Cannondale - Garmin

Ivan Santaromita Orica - Greenedge