slicked by rain in some places. The Spaniard started two minutes before Martin, but the German powered past him around the 18-mile mark.

Contador said he had a hard time finishing the race after being reeled in by Martin.

"Psychologically, it is hard to continue when someone overtakes you. But I knew he was going to be very strong here," Contador said.

Watch video highlights from the 2012 road cycling world championships in our videos section (U.S.-only due to geo broadcast rights restrictions).