Davide Rebellin of Gerolsteiner took a commanding lead in the standings following an excellent Ardennes campaign, winning both the Amstel Gold Race and the Monument Liège–Bastogne–Liège.

Paolo Bettini's consistency through the season, however, saw the rider from Quick-Step–Davitamon overhaul Rebellin to claim his third consecutive World Cup crown and the outright record for competition victories.

In a sprint finish on the Via Roma, Erik Zabel thought he had done enough to secure victory and raised his arms in celebration.

As he did, Óscar Freire was able to overtake him at the line and claim an improbable victory.

In the general classification table the jersey identify the leader after the race.