17-Year-Old Benjamín Noval Wins Junior Men's Road Race at Montreal World Championships

Seventeen-year-old Benjamín Noval claimed victory in the junior men's road race at the UCI Road World Championships in Montreal on Thursday. Upon winning, the Spanish rider celebrated by making an imaginary pistol salute, proclaiming himself as Spain's future cycling talent.

Noval is the son of a former teammate of Alberto Contador who shares the same name. His celebration referenced Contador's iconic 'el pistolero' salute. Noval had previously signed a WorldTour contract at the age of 16 based on his promise rather than his race results.

Last year, Netcompany Ineos signed him for the 2025 season, proclaiming him to be one of the sport's most exciting young riders and future stars. The team highlighted his natural racing instincts, climbing strength, tactical intelligence, and maturity.