UMAG Classic Ends in Rare Tie as Bradáč and Rajović Share Victory
UMAG, Croatia – In a finish almost too close to call, the UMAG Classic (UCI 1.2) concluded with a historic tie between Czech rider Adam Bradáč of Factor Racing and Serbia’s Dušan Rajović of Solution Tech NIPPO Rali. After an intense bunch sprint and lengthy deliberation, race officials determined that neither rider could be definitively declared the winner, resulting in a shared triumph on Monday, March 4, 2026.
The 142-kilometer race, held in Croatia, saw Bradáč and Rajović battling wheel-to-wheel in the final meters. Bradáč, 19, appeared to have the race in hand, even beginning his celebration prematurely, but Rajović launched a powerful late surge that brought him alongside the Czech rider just before the finish line. The photo finish proved inconclusive, leading to the unprecedented decision to award both cyclists first place.
A Photo Finish Too Close for Comfort
The dramatic conclusion unfolded after a hard-fought race. Bradáč described the sprint as “intense,” highlighting the fierce competition for position in the closing stages. As he prepared to celebrate what he thought was a solo victory, Rajović was rapidly closing the gap. “The chain slipped at 200 meters, which made me lose speed at a crucial moment,” Rajović explained. “Despite this, I immediately tried to accelerate and gave everything I had in the final meters. I managed to catch up and pull alongside Bradáč right on the line.”
The uncertainty following the sprint prompted a lengthy review by the race jury. Unable to definitively determine the winner based on available evidence, officials made the unusual decision to declare a tie. This outcome is exceptionally rare in road cycling, where finishes are typically determined by fractions of a second.
First Professional Victory for Bradáč, Continued Success for Rajović
This victory marks Adam Bradáč’s first triumph in a UCI-categorized race. The UMAG Classic is a 1.2 event, representing the fourth-highest tier of one-day classic races. Bradáč, a former rider for the Dukla Prague team, joins a distinguished list of past winners including Adam Ťoupalík (2023) and Alois Kaňkovský (2022). The win is a significant milestone in the young Czech rider’s career, signaling his potential on the professional circuit.
For Dušan Rajović, the shared victory adds to his growing list of accomplishments. While this isn’t his first professional win, it’s a testament to his sprinting prowess and determination. The Serbian rider’s late surge demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and capitalize on opportunities.
Podium Celebrations and Future Prospects
The awards ceremony saw both Bradáč and Rajović raise the trophy together, symbolizing their shared achievement. Erik Fetter of Team United Shipping finished third, completing the podium. Simone Buda of Solme Olmo Arvedi finished fourth, and Davide Persico of MBH Bank Ballan Telecom finished eighth.
The UMAG Classic serves as an important early-season race for many continental and professional teams. The event provides valuable racing experience and an opportunity for riders to showcase their talent. For Bradáč and Rajović, this shared victory will undoubtedly serve as a springboard for future success.
The unusual outcome of the UMAG Classic serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cycling and the importance of racing until the very end. Bradáč’s near-miss celebration will likely be a cautionary tale for riders in future sprints, emphasizing the need to remain focused until the finish line is definitively crossed.
Both riders can now add the win to their palmarès, a testament to their efforts and a moment they will surely cherish. The UMAG Classic will be remembered not just for its thrilling finish, but for its unique outcome – a rare tie that celebrated the sportsmanship and competitive spirit of two deserving cyclists.
What’s Next: Both Bradáč and Rajović are expected to continue racing in upcoming UCI events throughout March. Details on their specific schedules will be released by their respective teams.
