Italian strongman Andrea Tafi swept to victory in this Sunday’s 86th edition
of the Tour of Flanders. The 35-year-old Mapei rider cruised in ahead of
Johan Musseuw (Domo) and Peter Van Petergen (Lotto).

Musseuw had broken away with a group of five containing American George
Hincapie, Tafi and Danielo Nardello. As the leaders quickly swept up the
remnants of an early break and with ecstatic Belgian fans lining the
roadside, it looked as if either Musseuw or Petergen might take a valuable
home-victory.

Both riders showed their strength with similar attacks on the run into the
finish. But with less than 5kms to go and the final climb of the Bosberg
completed, an epic sprint finish looked to be on the cards. Then, with the
riders eagerly watching each other , Tafi broke clear and the desperate
hesitation behind him was enough to ensure a famous win.

Placings

1st Andre Tafi (Mapei, Italy)264km 6-53-00
2nd Johan Musseuw (Domo, Belgium)
3rd Peter Van Petergen (Lotto, Belgium)
4th George Hincapie (USPS, USA)
5th Daniele Nardello (Mapei, Italy) all s.t