“I used to watch this race as a fan, and now I’ve won it — it’s unbelievable”
Matthew Brennan produced an outstanding performance to win the 2026 Kuurne–Brussels–Kuurne in Belgium. The 20-year-old became the first British rider to claim the famous one-day classic since Mark Cavendish, marking a major moment in his young career.
The race covered around 195 kilometres on the demanding Flemish roads, with rolling terrain and short climbs shaping the contest. Attacks throughout the day reduced the main group, leading to a tense sprint finish between a select group of riders.
After 4 hours, 26 minutes and 10 seconds of racing, Brennan launched a perfectly timed sprint in the final metres to secure victory. He crossed the line just ahead of Luca Mozzato and Matteo Trentin, sealing an impressive win.
Brennan praised his Visma–Lease a Bike teammates for their support, saying their work in the closing stages made the difference. The victory confirms him as one of Britain’s rising stars in the classics season.