Questions continue to surround Brandon McNulty’s victory at the UCI Road World Championships after rival riders raised concerns about the role played by fellow UAE Emirates-XRG rider Isaac del Toro during the race.
McNulty delivered a historic result by winning the elite men’s road race and securing the first rainbow jersey for the United States in 33 years. His victory was celebrated as a major achievement for American cycling, but discussion quickly shifted toward race tactics and the actions of several key riders.
The debate began after competitors suggested that Del Toro may have indirectly helped McNulty during the closing stages of the championship race in Montréal.
Among those questioning the race dynamics was British rider Tom Pidcock. Following the event, he suggested that Del Toro appeared to be working in a way that benefited McNulty after the American launched the attack that ultimately secured victory.
Australian rider Michael Matthews also raised similar concerns as teams reviewed the race and analyzed the tactical decisions made during crucial moments.
The comments sparked widespread discussion among cycling fans and analysts. Race footage was examined repeatedly as observers tried to determine whether Del Toro’s actions influenced the outcome in favor of his trade team colleague.
The controversy centers on the relationship between the two riders at UAE Emirates-XRG. Although riders compete for their national teams at the World Championships, they spend most of the season racing together for professional trade teams.
That connection led some observers to question whether trade team interests could have influenced decisions during a race that is traditionally contested between nations.
The allegations were strongly rejected by Joxean Fernández Matxin, a senior manager at UAE Emirates-XRG. Speaking after the race, he dismissed suggestions that Del Toro had worked to help McNulty win the title.
Matxin argued that critics should rely on measurable evidence rather than speculation. He challenged those making accusations to provide data showing Del Toro contributed less effort than other riders attempting to bring McNulty back.
According to Matxin, opinions alone are not enough to support claims of cooperation between the two riders. He said any serious discussion should be based on objective race information rather than assumptions.
His defense of the riders was expected by many within the sport. As a senior figure within UAE Emirates-XRG, Matxin oversees a team that includes some of cycling’s biggest names.
The organization has become one of the strongest teams in professional cycling and features riders such as McNulty, Del Toro, and reigning world champion Tadej Pogačar.
Despite the criticism, Matxin insisted that Del Toro raced for his country and pursued his own ambitions throughout the championship.
The Mexican rider entered the race with hopes of delivering a historic result for his nation. According to Matxin, Del Toro was fully committed to representing Mexico and wanted to compete for the world title himself.
The team manager went even further in his assessment of the race. He argued that Del Toro was actually the strongest rider in the field despite finishing behind McNulty.
Matxin said rival riders paid close attention to Del Toro throughout the event, which he viewed as evidence of the respect they had for his form and abilities.
He suggested that while the course may not have perfectly matched Del Toro’s strengths, the Mexican rider demonstrated exceptional condition and remained one of the most dangerous competitors throughout the day.
Many observers agreed that Del Toro was among the most active riders in the race. He repeatedly featured near the front of the peloton and played a major role in several key moments.
Supporters of the Mexican rider argue that his aggressive racing style reflected an attempt to win rather than assist another competitor. They point to his attacks and visible effort as evidence that he was racing for his own result.
The debate has become one of the biggest talking points following the World Championships. While some riders continue to question the tactics used during the race, others believe the controversy has been exaggerated.
For now, no evidence has emerged proving that Del Toro intentionally worked for McNulty. The official result remains unchanged, and McNulty’s achievement stands as a landmark moment for American cycling.
As discussions continue, the Brandon McNulty world title victory remains both a historic success and one of the most debated results of the season. The controversy highlights the unique challenge of balancing national team competition with relationships formed through professional trade teams.
