Incident before the time trial

Brandon McNulty was riding to the start of the 16th stage, an individual time trial from Evian to Thonon-les-Bains, after reconnoitring the course. A car overtook him and then stopped abruptly, leaving the American unable to avoid a collision. Team manager Mauro Gianetti described the driver as furious and the act as deliberate.

“He was simply riding his bike with a car behind him. An ordinary car, we don't know who it is. The car then overtook him and simply stopped in front of him. Brandon couldn't avoid it and hit it.”

No serious injury

McNulty was thrown from his bike but escaped without serious harm. Medical staff cleared him to start the stage, and he took his place on the start ramp as planned. Gianetti confirmed the rider was not badly hurt.

“Apparently, Brandon's injury is not too serious, but it's obviously not a good sign. Fortunately, he was not seriously injured and got the green light to continue.”

Team context and reaction

McNulty is a key lieutenant for yellow jersey Tadej Pogacar at UAE Team Emirates XRG. The incident drew sharp criticism from Gianetti, who regretted what he called a deliberate act by the motorist. The team did not identify the driver.

What lies ahead

The Tour de France now heads into three consecutive Alpine stages on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. McNulty, considered an outsider for the time trial, will be expected to support Pogacar in the mountains. No further update on the driver or any investigation was immediately available.