Welsh rider Joshua Tarling brought Great Britain its first medal at the Track Cycling World Championships in the points race. Tarling claimed the greatest victory of his career and officially entered the big leagues, at just 21 years old.

For his first race in the elite track category, Joshua Tarling dominated the event in spectacular fashion to earn his first rainbow jersey, in Chile. From start to finish, he showed that his road racing skills can perfectly translate onto the track.

The points race is usually reserved for experienced riders who must rely not only on strength, but also on intelligence and craftiness. Yet Tarling flew over the competition at just 21, and for his first race at this level. The young Welshman controlled the event from beginning to end, collecting points right from the first sprint.

He then managed to lap the entire field after the third round, securing a massive lead in points. Tarling even had the luxury of winning the final sprint to crown his performance in style. Already a junior world champion on the track and winner of the individual time trial in 2022, he now belongs among the (very) best.

“The rainbow jersey stays with you forever,” Tarling rejoiced. “I’ll have it up in the house and it’ll look super nice. It’s a perfect way to end the season.”

It was a dream night for the British team, as Englishman Charlton also brought home a medal for Great Britain in the individual pursuit the previous evening.

After these World Championships, Tarling will return to road racing with INEOS and already looks ready to deliver a top-level 2026 season.

Picture : « British Cycling » X account