Feb 14, 2006
Petacchi V Boonen Round 1
The Petacchi Vs Boonen battle could be one to watch this season. Cycling enthusiast have been looking at the Vuelta Andalucia “Ruta Del Sol” as a showdown between the two powerful sprinters. Since Boonen won the world title in Madrid-a race that Petacchi was heavily favored to win- there has been anticipation for the 2006 showdowns between the two sprinters. Boonen’s team has a few former Petacchi leadout men that have helped make this a true rivalry.

Today, the sprinters finally had their way and Petacchi and Boonen finsihed one-two respectively.
No details on the finish as my dutch is nonexistent, but more news will follow. Hopefully this season will see more battles between these two.
Personally I would have thought the edge would go to Boonen since his Quick-Step team seemed to be firing on all cyclinders in Qatar. Score one for AleJet.
Pic from http://www.wieleruitslagen.be/