Lizzie Deignan finished sixth in the chasing group behind new World Champion Anna van der Breggen, medalist Annemiek van Fruten, and Elisa Longo Borghini, but she ran a tactically smart race and has no regrets about the women's race results I have no regrets about the outcome of the women's race.

"The stronger climbers won today. Towards the end I couldn't keep up with the best climbers and became a bit of a no man's lander.

"Overall I am happy with my performance. There was nothing more I could have done."

Some said the steep climb of the 28.8km circuit suited Deignan, who won the rainbow jersey in 2015, but attacks by Van Hulten and then Van der Breggen hurt more than expected.

"The second climb was just so hard and long. When I entered the World Championships, everyone said it would suit me, but a climb like that is a little too long for me," Deignan admitted.

"But it was still a climber's course and I think the result confirms that."

The British team leader enjoyed a protected run in the peloton for much of the race, thanks to Hannah Barnes, who took part in 11 attacks.

When Van Vleuten set a furious pace on the final climb to Cima Gallisterena, splitting the peloton, Deignan dug deep and kept in contact, coming back on the false flats and descent to Imola.

Van der Breggen had already escaped alone and was continuing his time trial for a second world title, but the other attackers refused to cooperate and were eventually caught by the chase group.

"With two laps to go, I was in the group that was going for the medal.

"If the Italians didn't dedicate themselves to their home championships, I wasn't going to either. It was their race to win."

The World Championships are usually the last race of the season for many women athletes. This year was different; due to the COVID-19 epidemic and a change in the season schedule, Deignan will continue racing through October.

"On Wednesday we have the Fresh Wallonne," she said.

"Back-to-back races for now. But that's okay. We are all happy to be part of the race."