Politt Celebrates Time Trial Triple in the Thuringian Forest

Professional cyclist Nils Politt celebrated his third German time trial championship title in the Thuringian Forest. In the opening race of the championships, the 32-year-old won by a narrow margin over 41 kilometers in sweltering temperatures around the town of Streudorf. Maximilian Walscheid, who finished second, was just one second slower than Politt, while Jasha Sütterlin, who placed third, was only two seconds behind.

The teammate of cycling star Tadej Pogacar had already won the time trial title in 2023 and 2024. Last year, Maximilian Schachmann took the title; this year, he finished fourth, 13 seconds behind. Rising star Florian Lipowitz, who will compete in the Tour de France next week, is not participating in the championships. 

No Weather-Related Cancellations at the German Championships

Unlike other major sporting events, there were no considerations of canceling the championships due to the weather. Temperatures were already just over 31 degrees on Friday morning during the individual time trial.

However, the organizers changed the rule regarding aid stations: Normally, handing out water and energy gels is only permitted in specific areas. At the German Championships, due to the heat, it is allowed anywhere along the course, a spokeswoman told the German Press Agency upon request. 

Both road races this weekend

On Saturday, the women—led by Paris-Roubaix winner and defending champion Franziska Koch—will compete for the women’s road title on a 136.5-kilometer circuit near Bad Liebenstein. 

A day later, it’s the men’s turn, and they must complete the circuit seven times. A total of 191.1 kilometers is on the schedule. Last year, Georg Zimmermann from Augsburg won in the Palatinate.