Bettini takes a stage and looks ahead to worlds

After a solid win on stage 16 of the Vuelta, Paolo Bettini said he was "extremely happy" with the victory. " I've been looking for a win for some time after all of the physical problems that have unfortunately marked my season," said Bettini after the stage. The Italian has had an indifferent season in 2005, and after winning the World Cup and Olympic road race in 2004, he could be forgiven for being disappointed with his slim pickings this year.

"I dedicate this victory to a 'leoncino' who has overcome a difficult moment and also to myself," said Bettini in the moments after arriving in Valladolid. "With Petacchi I've been ahead of all of the greatest sprinters at least once during the last few years."