Brandon McNulty wins first U.S. men's world cycling championship in 33 years

Historic American Victory

Brandon McNulty claimed the men's road race world championship in Montreal, becoming the first American to win the title since Lance Armstrong in 1993—a 33-year drought for U.S. cycling. The 28-year-old completed the grueling 273.4-kilometer course in six hours and 17 minutes, crossing the finish line 13 seconds ahead of the pursuing peloton. Michael Matthews of Australia claimed second place, while Mathieu van der Poel of the Netherlands finished third. McNulty's disbelief was evident as he crossed the line, later reflecting that he didn't truly believe in his chances until the final 800 meters, describing his victory as something of a miracle.

Tactical Execution in the Final Kilometers

McNulty's winning move came with approximately 30 kilometers remaining, when he launched a decisive attack that opened a 50-second gap heading into the final lap. The American, primarily known as a time triallist and domestic worker for Tadej Pogacar on the UAE Team Emirates roster, appeared vulnerable on the final climb as his lead collapsed to just 10 seconds. However, the chase group never managed to bridge the remaining gap, and McNulty held on for an emotionally significant victory. His tactical decision to go late in the race proved decisive—many of the race's established favorites attacked too early in the marathon distance, expending their energy without achieving a lasting advantage.

High-Quality Field Despite Absences

The Montreal course attracted a strong international contingent of elite riders, though defending champion and Slovenian star Tadej Pogacar sat out the race due to injury. Despite his absence, the starting list included multiple podium contenders and recent champions: van der Poel, Remco Evenepoel of Belgium, Wout van Aert, Paul Seixas, and Britain's Tom Pidcock all featured prominently throughout the race. Pidcock ultimately finished seventh, while Ireland's Ben Healy placed 10th and Evenepoel secured 12th. These established contenders repeatedly attempted to forge breakaways throughout the race, but the sheer distance and competitive intensity meant that no permanent decisive move materialized until McNulty's late-race attack.

Unlikely Champion in a Star-Studded Sport

McNulty's ascent to world champion represents an unlikely narrative in professional cycling's elite circles. Characterized as unassuming and at times seemingly timid, the American has built his career working within team hierarchies rather than as a primary leader—his role supporting Pogacar typifies his approach. Yet on this particular day, his combination of timing, endurance, and mental toughness proved decisive over the more celebrated names in the field. His popularity among cycling professionals underscores how his victory resonated across the sport, transcending typical rivalry dynamics. The win also marks a significant achievement for American road cycling, ending a three-decade gap in world championship success at cycling's highest level.