Brandon McNulty opts out of World Championships to recover from a gruelling Vuelta a Espana

American rider Brandon McNulty is the latest from the team to opt-out of the World Championships in Wollongong, Australia. His reasoning is fatigue from Vuelta a Espana will not allow him to give it his best.

His withdrawal is a big blow to the American team, especially since his climbing abilities could have landed the team a victory in Wollongong. With McNulty and Quinn Simmons's spots left, the team has decided to continue with Scott McGill and Keegan Swenson.

“The time-trial should decide the final GC, but we’re focused day by day" - Matteo Trentin prioritizes stage victory over GC

This year has been particularly difficult for the American selectors, with a big shuffle happening every few weeks. “This has proven to be an unusual year for World’s team selection. Between the WorldTour relegation battle and the daunting trip to Australia, our selection pool is far smaller than normal. I’m a big fan of the phrase ‘let no good crisis go to waste.’ And that’s why the selection committee decided to add Keegan to our Elite Road team.” Brendan Quirk, CEO of USA Cycling, concluded.