Brandon McNulty Wins Road World Championship in Montreal
How McNulty Outsmarted the Favoured Belgians
American cyclist Brandon McNulty captured the men’s road race world title in Montreal on Sunday, becoming the first U. S. rider to win the elite men’s championship since Lance Armstrong in 1993. The 25-year-old from Arizona surged to victory in a chaotic final sprint, edging out a strong field after a grueling 268-kilometre course through Quebec’s streets. Pre-race favourite Remco Evenepoel of Belgium failed to secure a second consecutive title, finishing outside the medals as McNulty held on in the final 100 metres.
McNulty admitted he doubted his chances until the very end, saying he „didn’t believe it” until crossing the line. His UAE Team Emirates squad controlled the race in the closing laps, setting up his attack as Evenepoel and others marked each other. The win came after a season marked by consistency, including strong performances in the Tour de France and Vuelta a España, positioning him as a dark horse rather than a outright favourite. His triumph ended a 30-year drought for American men at the world championships.
What Does This Mean for American Cycling?
McNulty’s victory was built on patience and teamwork, as UAE Team Emirates shielded him from wind and positioned him perfectly for the finale. While Evenepoel and Wout van Aert exchanged attacks earlier, McNulty conserved energy, waiting for the decisive moment. With 500 metres to go, he launched from the wheel of his teammate, surging past a tiring peloton. Photographers captured his arms raised in disbelief as he crossed the line, a moment he described as surreal. „I kept looking back, expecting someone to come,” he said, still processing the shock.
The win renews hope for U. S. men’s road cycling, which has lacked a world champion since Armstrong’s controversial era. McNulty, a clean athlete with no ties to that period, represents a new generation built on transparency and development through U. S. domestic teams and European exposure. His success may inspire younger riders and signal a shift in American competitiveness on the global stage. USA Cycling called it a „historic breakthrough” after years of near-misses.
Who is Brandon McNulty? Brandon McNulty is a 25-year-old professional cyclist from Arizona who rides for UAE Team Emirates. He won the 2023 men’s road race world championship in Montreal, becoming the first American man to do so since 1993.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was this win considered surprising? McNulty was not the pre-race favourite; that honour went to Remco Evenepoel, who had won the title in 2022. McNulty’s victory came through tactical patience and team support, overcoming a stacked field in the final sprint.
What is significant about this win for the United States? It ends a 30-year gap without an American men’s world road race champion, last achieved by Lance Armstrong. McNulty’s clean reputation and rise through modern development pathways mark a new chapter for U. S. cycling.