The Belgian brought home a solid result for The Wolfpack on Belgian soil.
Tim Merlier finished top three at the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen for the second year in a row at the end of a hard day in the saddle, during which the European Champion – who made his return to competition after almost a month – suffered due to the high temperatures.
Soudal Quick-Step assumed responsibility in the peloton as soon as the 180.2km race left the neutral zone behind and set a steady tempo behind the breakaway of six. With each local lap covered, our team gradually reduced the leaders’ gap, before making the catch around 20 kilometers from home. In the finale, Bert Van Lerberghe did his best to position Merlier, and the 32-year-old Belgian – despite not his best – was still capable of putting in an impressive sprint that netted his 18th podium of the season.
“It was really difficult today because of the heat and I missed that extra something to pass the others on the finishing straight. On the other hand, I take a lot of confidence from this result, given the conditions, and remain motivated for Sunday, when we’ll have another opportunity here in Belgium. My goal is to reach 15 victories this season and I am prepared to do my best in order to achieve it”, Tim said after the race.
Photo credit: ©Luc Claessen / Getty Images
