LITTLE-KNOWN Ivan Gotti yesterday became the first Italian in six years to win the Tour of Italy as he beat defending chanipion Pavel Tonkov by 87 seconds at the end of the 22-stage marathon.

Supermario" Cipollini, a team-mate of Gotti, took the final stage in Milan, beating Swede Glenn Magnusson in a crowded sprint. It was the fifth stage victory in this year's Tour for Cipollini.

The traditionally ceremonial final leg - 102 miles from the spa resort of Boario Ternie to Milan - was a triumphant parade for the 28-year-old Gotti. He finished in the same time as the winner to stay ahead of Tonkov and fellow Italian Giuseppe Guerini in the final overall standings.

"It's a dream come true," said Gotti. "I had been thinking of a Giro victory since I began riding as a junior."