Italy's Vincenzo Nibali became the first rider in over 20 years to successfully defend his Tirreno-Adriatico crown on Tuesday as the Astana racer held off the challenge of Britain's Chris Froome. Froome had begun the day 34 seconds behind his rival and Nibali was able to hold him off to take the overall win following a 9.2km time-trial around San Benedetto del Tronto. The Italian is the first rider to defend his crown in the Tirreno since Tony Rominger in 1989-1990. Nibali came in 12th on the day with German Tony Martin of Omega Pharma winning the time-trial. Spanish Saxo Bank rider Alberto Contador was third overall at 52 seconds.

"I am really happy with this repeat victory as it is very valuable (given it was achieved) against renowned adversaries such as Contador, Froome and (Joaquin)  Rodriguez," said 28-year-old Nibali, who gave up 26sec on the day to time trial world champion Tony Martin.

   

This latest success underlines his status as a favorite for the Giro d'Italia, where he will be up against, among others, Tour de France champion Bradley Wiggins.