Kevin Vermaerke targets first US world title since 1993

The United States sees a rare opportunity to reclaim the men’s road world title at the championships in Montreal. Tadej Pogacar will not return to defend his crown, leaving the race more open and raising American hopes of a first victory since Lance Armstrong’s triumph in 1993.

The US line-up for the September 27 race includes Quinn Simmons, Neilson Powless, Brandon McNulty, Matteo Jorgenson, Larry Warbasse, Artem Schmidt, Sean Quinn and Kevin Vermaerke. Vermaerke believes the eight-rider group gives the country its strongest chance in decades, with every member able to contribute to the outcome.

McNulty also brings a useful connection to the course after winning last year’s Grand Prix de Montréal on roads that will feature at the worlds. Pogacar supported him in that race, but his absence has changed the balance ahead of the championship.

Vermaerke identified Isaac Del Toro, Remco Evenepoel and Paul Seixas as the leading names without Pogacar. He expects Belgium to carry much of the responsibility for controlling the race, while the Americans plan to use their depth by attacking before the final 50 kilometres. Their strategy is to reach the decisive phase with several riders together and exploit their experience in races longer than 250 kilometres.