 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.Bettini's excellent form in August had much input into the final standings