Franco Pellizotti got close to his first win of the season when he finished third in today's Giro dell'Emilia. Despite coming up short, the Italian was pleased with the result as he was beaten by Davide Rebellin whom he describes as a great champion.

Having finished third in the Coppa Sabatini, Franco Pellizotti went into the Giro dell'Emilia as one of the big favourites. The Androni captain rode strongly throughout the race but was unable to match Davide Rebellin on the final passage of the San Luca climb, ultimately crossing the line in third.

"In the end, it is a good result," he told Spaziociclismo after the race. "I was simply beaten by a great champion. I am in good condition and we finish the season in a great way.

"It was a very tough race. We started fast and set a hard pace all day. In the end I suffered from cramps. I had to try to manage the energies and get to the finish as best as possible."