Daniel Benson's Cycling Substack

A stunning solo victory from Ashlin Barry, questions over whether the chasers could have done more, another reminder of cycling’s flawed development pathway, the ongoing debate around race radios, and further evidence that Montreal has delivered an outstanding Worlds course. Here are five conclusions from a fascinating U23 men’s road race that provided plenty to unpack beyond the result.

Today’s newsletter looks at why Benjamin Noval’s extraordinary double at Worlds could be an important moment for Netcompany Ineos, rather than simply another big result from one of cycling’s brightest young talents. Then, with the elite men’s road race fast approaching, I’ve picked out 10 riders who could surprise the favourites on Sunday.

We have another bumper newsletter for you today as we dive into Movistar transfer news, then it’s grading time for a new batch of rider transfers. Don’t forget: there’s a 20% sale on all annual subscriptions right now, so if you want to read my in-depth, behind-the-scenes coverage through the end of next season, now’s a great time to sign up.

We have another bumper newsletter today as we pick up the overnight story that Giulio Ciccone could be on the cusp of a transfer to Pinarello Q36.5. Het Laatste Nieuws and Ciro Scognamiglio in Gazzetta broke the news, but reports suggest other teams may be interested in the rider.

We’ve got a stacked newsletter today. First, we’re focusing on what’s next for the top tens from the U23 time trials, including the teams they’ll ride for next season. Then we have our exclusive interview with Serge Pauwels, who has been plotting Belgium’s hunt for the rainbow jersey in the men’s road race. Pauwels talks leadership, roles within the team, evening Zoom calls with the riders, rivals, and Remco Evenepoel and Wout van Aert.

Hi Subscribers, Ever since my time at Velonews abruptly ended in 2022, I’ve wanted to work with Zach Nehr again. One of the most analytical and data-driven freelance writers out there, he’s carved out a niche by poring over and interpreting power data, both after races and ahead of major showdowns. You’ve probably seen his name on plenty of titles over the last few years, so it’s a huge honour to have him contribute to the Substack. And it’s only possible because of all your amazing support.

The junior men’s fields at the UCI Road World Championships are packed with emerging talent, including medal contenders, future WorldTour prospects and a handful of potential dark horses, all set to line up across the time trial and road race. From Italy and Belgium to the US, Australia and Scandinavia, plenty of riders are worth watching in Montreal.

One minute you’re on the sofa, binge-watching Colin from Accounts, thinking the day is done; the next, you’re writing breaking transfer news after hearing that Sam Welsford is set to join Jayco AlUla for 2027. Welsford was in talks with the Australian team last year but ultimately signed with Ineos Grenadiers on a two-year deal. He began this season in fine form, winning a stage of the Tour Down Under, the national criterium championships and Cadel’s Criterium.

The UCI Road World Championships start this weekend, and over the coming days I’ll bring you a series of features from inside several key teams and on storylines likely to shape the fight for the rainbow jerseys. First up is the United States men’s team, heading to Montreal with genuine ambitions and, according to many inside the setup, the strongest squad the nation has fielded in years.

Hey Subscribers, Before we get into today’s transfer grades, a quick heads-up: our World Championships coverage begins tomorrow, with daily analysis, previews, news and interviews from one of the biggest weeks of the season. If you’ve been thinking about subscribing, I’m currently offering a 20% discount on all annual subscriptions. As for today’s piece, we’ve got a fascinating batch of moves to dig through.