Cadel Evans Wins World Road Race Championships

The rainbow jersey of the World Championships is a coveted title because it follows you around throughout the cycling season. That's why, even if you aren't Australian, you have to be happy today for Cadel Evans who put on a dazzling display today in Mendrisio, Switzerland to secure that rainbow jersey for winning the one-day WC race.

Evans was a bit defiant in victory, responding directly to all the critics who've said he can't win.

"This is for all the critics I’ve had this season," Evans said. "I have seven worlds medals from mountain biking at home, but none of them are gold. People say I never win, but today I won something pretty big."

Evans has had a career of close calls, although he recently came in third at the Vuelta a Espana and might have, if not for a bike issue and getting pinched off at the last sprint of another stage, challenged for the golden jersey. Evans becomes the first Australian to ever win the WC and he did it in style, beating out names like home country hero Fabian Cancellara (who won the World Championship time trial), Tom Boonen and Sammy Sanchez.

For some post race discussion, check out Podium Cafe.