Revanche for Merlier in Renewi Tour after losing sprint at Belgian Championship Gravel? "Happy to prove at the highest level what I am capable of"

The Belgian top sprinter is obviously very happy with this result. “Paul (Magnier, ed.) was in the breakaway. That was a very good situation. He is our classification rider here,” said Merlier in the flash interview after the race. “He was very strong, and he went with them at the right moment. We were very happy that he was there,” said the stage winner.

As a result, it was not up to Soudal Quick-Step to catch up with the early breakaway. “I felt pretty good all day. I was confident, but it wasn't certain that it would come down to a sprint. The breakaway stayed away for a long time,” said the 32-year-old rider, looking back on the opening stage in Zeeland.

The sprint also went according to Merlier's plan. “I was able to start my sprint when I wanted to. And no one could get past me, so I'm super happy. Now I really felt that we had a good position. We've had to come from further back before. We had the race under control, and the team did a fantastic job of getting me into a good position. I was able to start the sprint with fresh legs. It's a great victory for the team,” said Merlier.

Last Sunday, Merlier lost a sprint, which is not something that happens often this season. However, that was not in a road race, but in the Belgian gravel championship. “I said at the time that I wouldn't lose sleep over it. I'm happy that I can show at the highest level what I'm capable of,” Merlier replied.