Brandon McNulty has claimed his first victory in the rainbow jersey of world champion, powering to a solo triumph at the 2026 Veneto Classic after dropping Anthon Charmig in the final 10 kilometres on the road to Bassano del Grappa.

The UAE Team Emirates - XRG star, who claimed the world road race title in late September, added a 24th professional victory to his palmarès with another impressive attacking performance, distancing the Uno-X Mobility rider after the pair had broken clear of a star-studded group of favourites.

McNulty in the Rainbow Jersey

McNulty makes the difference in attacking finale

The 157-kilometre race had initially featured several unsuccessful breakaway attempts before a powerful group of 21 riders established itself ahead of the peloton.

McNulty was joined by UAE teammates Filippo Baroncini, Benoît Cosnefroy and Pavel Sivakov, while Christian Scaroni, Diego Ulissi, Marc Hirschi and Charmig were also among those making the selection.

The first major split came when McNulty accelerated with approximately 64 kilometres remaining, forming a six-rider group before several chasers regained contact.

Further attacks followed, including an acceleration from Baroncini and Charmig, before McNulty joined the Norwegian at the front of the race with around 40 kilometres remaining.

The pair steadily extended their advantage, moving 30 seconds clear with 34 kilometres to go before doubling that margin as the chasing groups fractured behind.

McNulty then launched his decisive acceleration with 10 kilometres remaining, leaving Charmig behind before tackling the late unpaved Diesel Farm section alone.

The world champion had opened a 20-second advantage with six kilometres remaining and continued towards Bassano del Grappa unchallenged, sealing his first victory since winning the world title on 27 September.