Petacchi disappointed for fans

Milram's Alessandro Petacchi has said he's disappointed for his fans after failing to out sprint Giro d'Italia Stage 9 winner Danilo Napolitano (Lampre - Fondital) and second placed Robbie McEwen (Predictor - Lotto). The 177 kilometre stage, which saw Petacchi finish third, passes straight by the Italian's home, hence the desire to take victory.

"Certainly, I would have preferred that Napolitano had won Mugello and I here," said Petacchi, referring to his own victory on Stage 7. "I am however pleased with my ride. Unfortunately it did not suffice."

Petacchi currently holds 95th position on general classification, some 16 minutes behind leader Marco Pinotti (T-Moblie). The Milram rider dropped some 11 minutes on the fourth stage, largely contributing to his GC position.

"I also want to thank the fans," he added, "because today, from Cerreto to the finish, I have heard along my name. I thank them for the affection and [it] displeases me not to be successful to repay them with victory. Obviously, I will try again [for] us."