Another masterclass from the 32-year-old Belgian on the World Tour scene.
Tim Merlier cemented his status as the most successful sprinter of the season after his 14th win of the year, at the end of the Renewi Tour’s penultimate stage. Victorious also on the opening day, the European Champion produced another magnificent sprint and made the Renewi Tour his sixth different stage race of the season with multiple wins, after the AlUla Tour, UAE Tour, Paris-Nice, Tour of Belgium and Tour de France.
Once the catch was made Saturday afternoon, thanks also to a phenomenal effort of former Belgian Champion Yves Lampaert, things once again became hectic in the peloton, as the fast men were trying to find some space before the uphill drag to the line. Around 500 meters from the finish, Merlier was a bit boxed in, but he expertly found an opening on the right side of the road, got himself in the perfect slot and opened the sprint with 200 meters to go.
That sensational burst of speed sent Merlier across the line arms aloft as he celebrated his 40th victory for the team, the Belgian becoming the sixth different rider to have reached this remarkable milestone in the Soudal Quick-Step jersey.
“It was a difficult finish, but I am delighted I could pull it off. I started from the distance and felt I could keep the speed all the way to the line. The team did another great effort, and it was thanks to them that we had a bunch sprint today, as the breakaway was dangerous and strong and made the peloton work hard. I’m happy with my 40th victory as a Soudal Quick-Step rider, it’s something I am proud of. We have two stage victories here, but are all motivated to give our best also on the final day of the race”, Tim said after Saturday’s win in Bilzen-Hoeselt.
Photo credit: ©Luc Claessen / Getty Images
