Hirschi strikes again in Italy as McNulty takes overall title in Croatia

After his sixth place at the home world championships in Zurich, Marc Hirschi had strength and tactics to take a fine victory at the Coppa Agostoni in Italy today.

Hirschi attacked 41 kilometers from the finish, initiating the group of four that ultimately fought for victory in the Italian one-day race. At one point they were able to gain almost a minute on their pursuers, but five kilometers from the end their lead shrank to 15 seconds.

Hirschi: “With a four man group it’s always difficult to get a good collaboration as everyone is playing for the podium spots. I knew Aranburu was probably the fastest but I think maybe his legs were heaviest. He attacked but we spoke behind and worked to bring him back which was good. It was a long final with a slight headwind and we nearly got swallowed up by the group behind, but thankfully I could hang on for another win.”

The podium was completed by two Frenchmen : Romain Gregoire (Groupama FDJ) and Paul Lapeira (Decathlon-AG2R).

Meanwhile Brandon McNulty finished safely in the bunch on stage 6 of the CRO Tour, Sveta Nedelja to Zagreb (157.5km), to cement his overall win in the race. 

The American, who now holds 8 wins to his name in 2024, left his mark on the race on stage 3 with a solo breakaway which saw him build a lead which the team would defend for the week.

McNulty : “In my last race of the season it’s nice to end on a high. The team worked really good defending the jersey all week and covering the bonus sprints etc. so all in all it’s been a really nice week and a super season for me and the team. Looking back on this season I think I can be really pleased.”

Coppa Agostoni results

1.Marc Hirschi (UAE Team Emirates) 3:59:08

2.Romain Gregoire (Groupama FDJ) s.t

3.Paul Lapeira (Decathlon AG2R) +1”

CRO Race final results

1.Bandon McNulty (UAE Team Emirates) 17:23:53

2.Tobias Lund Andresen (DSM firmenich) +8”

3.Fred Wright (Bahrain Victorious) +27”