McDunphy claims first Rás Tailteann

Kilcock's Conn McDunphy claimed the 2026 Rás Tailteann as the race was brought to an intense conclusion as the riders faced a fast and tactical final stage from Carlow to Dunboyne. With 52 seconds separating the leading riders on general classification, the final day opened at a ferocious pace as attacks flew from the opening kilometres across the roads of Kildare and Meath.

As the race entered the finishing circuit in Dunboyne, spectators were treated to relentless aggression from riders seeking to overturn the standings before the finish in Dunboyne. A breakaway featuring Ewan Mackie, who started the day in third place gained time quickly, forcing the yellow jersey team of APS Pro Cycling to organise a determined chase behind.

As the race entered Dunboyne for the final time, the head of the race was back together with Liam Flanagan (APS Pro Cycling) proving strongest in the bunch finish. He was followed by Tom Armstrong (Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli) and Matteo Cigala (Carlow: Dan Morrissey).

McDunphy of APS Pro Cycling successfully defended the yellow jersey to become the overall winner of the 2026 Rás Tailteann. The final stage completed an aggressive and dramatic edition of the race, with constant attacks, tactical battles and close general classification racing right to the final finish line.