McNulty Falls Short by 12 Seconds in Worlds Time Trial, Shifts Focus to Road Race

Narrow Defeat on the Clock

American cyclist Brandon McNulty missed out on a medal in the time trial at the 2026 UCI Road World Championships by just 12 seconds, finishing fourth overall. The event took place earlier this week, marking a narrow miss for the experienced rider who now turns his attention to the upcoming road race.

McNulty, known for his consistency in individual time trials, faced a challenging course that tested his endurance and tactical approach. Despite delivering a strong performance, he couldn't close the gap to the podium finishers. His time of 48 minutes and 32 seconds left him tantalizingly close to the bronze medal position.

The time trial circuit favored powerful riders with its mix of flat sections and rolling hills. McNulty’s pacing strategy was nearly flawless, but small margins made the difference. He expressed disappointment but remained focused on the road ahead.

Can the U. S. Team Deliver in the Road Race?

„I love the circuit, so I'm excited...but it'll be a hard day,”McNulty said post-race. His comments reflected both determination and realism about the challenges ahead in the road race.

With the road race coming up, McNulty will join what he described as the strongest U. S. squad in recent memory. The team includes climbers, sprinters, and domestiques all aiming for a top result. Their collective strength could prove decisive in a race that demands coordination and strategy.

The American lineup features riders with diverse specialties, giving them flexibility across different terrain. McNulty’s role will likely involve supporting key leaders while positioning himself for a potential late surge.

Looking ahead, McNulty remains optimistic despite the setback. His experience in high-pressure situations adds value to the team dynamic, and his near-miss in the time trial shows he’s in competitive form.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time did McNulty finish in the time trial? McNulty completed the course in 48 minutes and 32 seconds, placing him fourth overall.

How far was he from the podium? He trailed the bronze medalist by 12 seconds, highlighting how close he came to securing a medal.

Who else is on the U. S. road race team? While specific names weren’t listed, McNulty confirmed it includes climbers, sprinters, and domestiques, making it one of the strongest U. S. teams in years.