Ahead of the 2026 Tour de France, Fred Wright wins British national championships in Aberystwyth

The British national championships have come to an end, and in Aberystwyth Fred Wright has for the second time in his career won the national title after a three-men sprint between some of the best classics specialists in the nation.

It was a hilly circuit that in the women's race crowned Zoe Bäckstedt - after the young super-talent had also won the time trial event. Here, it was Ethan Hayter who won the time trial event but in the road race, a familiar face crossed the finish line - only in new colours.

The 2023 winner was the fastest during today's 187-kilometer long race which finished in a circuit that included a 2.2 kilometer long climb at 4%. Over the several laps over the circuit, many attacks took place, and the strongest eventually found themselves at the head of the race. They were Fred Wright, Connor Swift (Netcompany INEOS) and Lewis Askey (NSN Cycling Team). Everyone from the trio stood chances of taking the title, but only one could do it.

The decision would come down to a three-man sprint, decided almost in a photo-finish. Askey and Wright perhaps had the upper hand on Swift, who launched an early sprint to try and surprise. The INEOS rider almost surprised, but in the end it was Wright who took the win on the day, with a thrilling sprint. The Pinarello - Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team rider is set to race the Tour de France and from this Saturday onwards he will be wearing his new jersey at the sport's most prestigious race.

It is also Pinarello's second high-level victory of the day as earlier this Sunday, Marcel Camprubí took a surprise victory in Spain which has earned him a very reputable title. Tom Pidcock was not present at this Sunday's race but will be headlining the team at the Tour.