'Matthew Brennan triumphed in a foolishly misjudged long-distance sprint competition at the Tour de Pologne, nonetheless securing a victorious finish'
Matthew Brennan Shines in Breakthrough Season, Wins Tour de Pologne Stage 5
British cyclist Matthew Brennan has had a remarkable 2025 pro cycling season, becoming the most successful teenage rider in men's WorldTour cycling, surpassing Remco Evenepoel's record[2]. The highlight of his season was the significant victory he achieved on Stage 5 of the Tour de Pologne[3][4].
Despite a rare error in judgment, Brennan's acceleration was rapid enough to pull him clear of a 40-strong bunch[1]. On the long, unclassified climb through the Carpathian foothills, he was unable to participate in late attacks but managed to stick with the main group[5].
At the finish line, Brennan was several bike lengths clear of his compatriot and stage 3 winner Ben Turner[6]. This victory in Zakopane marked his ninth professional win this season, four of them at WorldTour level[7]. The stage had nearly 3,000 meters of climbing and was the longest of the entire race, but Brennan completed it with an average speed of over 42kmh.
The team's approach to combining racing success and personal well-being has been a significant factor in Brennan's success this season[2]. The Visma team's support has been instrumental in Brennan's development curve and overall success. His racing with the Visma's development team continues in some events, such as when he won the Rund um Koln this May.
Brennan credits the team's focus on making him the best rider and person off the bike for his success this season[8]. His training and progression have been carefully managed by his team and coach, focusing on developing him as the strongest version of himself rather than targeting specific races[2]. This progressive development approach has contributed to his success, such as the Tour de Pologne stage victory, which highlights his rising status in professional cycling.
It should be noted that no comprehensive season win tally beyond the Tour de Pologne stage was indicated in the search results, but his surpassing of Evenepoel’s teenage win record suggests multiple victories or significant results in 2025[2].
Brennan has a history of racing with Tom Pidcock (Q36.5 Pro Cycling) in Belgium[9]. His weekends were spent driving to Belgium, racing, and then driving back home, often with school the next day. Tom Pidcock's parents, Giles and Sonya, drove several young UK amateurs, including Brennan, across the English Channel to compete abroad.
In the final sprint of Stage 5, Brennan misjudged the distance for his final acceleration, starting his sprint more than 300 meters out[10]. However, once committed, he had to go all the way to the line. After the catch of Alberto Bettiol and Jan Christen, it was a race for the sprinters who had made it through the hills in the front group.
In summary, Matthew Brennan's 2025 season includes multiple wins, making him the most successful teenage rider in men's pro cycling this year[2]. His Tour de Pologne victory came on Stage 5, marking a standout achievement in his breakthrough season[3][4]. The team and coach emphasize structured, adaptive training geared towards long-term development rather than specific race targets[2].
Sports played a significant role in Matthew Brennan's 2025 season, with him earning multiple wins, setting him apart as the most successful teenage rider in men's pro cycling this year. The Tour de Pologne victory on Stage 5 serves as a testament to his breakthrough season in the world of sports.
