One down, two to go
-
Alberto Contador sealed victory at the Giro d'Italia to make it back-to-back Grand Tour wins (pic: Sirotti)
-
Contador kisses the Senza Fine, which already bears his name as 2008 champion. Already the Vuelta a Espana champion, Contador could hold all three Grand Tours at once if he triumphs in the Tour de France next month (pic: Sirotti)
-
Richie Porte was forced to abandon the Giro d'Italia after a nightmare second week (pic: Sirotti)
-
Aru bagged the white jersey of best young rider after two stage wins (pic: Sirotti)
-
Despite not winning a stage, Giacomo Nizzolo's consistency was enough to bag the red jersey (pic: Sirotti)
One down, two to go
The first Grand Tour ended in an all-too-familiar manner with Alberto Contador (Tinkoff-Saxo) deservedly topping the final podium after another dominant performance.
Such was El Pistolero’s dominance, not even losing a lot of time on the final three days could stop the Spaniard from cruising to a convincing seventh Grand Tour win – nine for those who count the two stripped from his record.
Having been interestingly poised for the first two weeks, a dominant time trial – in adverse conditions – and a masterclass on the Mortirolo put paid to any suggestion he would not be making it back-to-back Grand Tour wins.
But where does it leave us? Can Contador do the Giro-Tour double? And what of the other contenders – both those who stuck the course, and those forced out of the race?
And how did it all go wrong so often for the sprinters?
Read on for our post-race thoughts and analysis.