Last year, it was invisible to the naked eye, but now it is clear that Tim Merlier won the opening stage of the UAE Tour. “Winning against all these strong runners feels good,” he says.
Just like last year, Tim Merlier won the first stage of the UAE Tour. If there was a photo finish last year, the Belgian runner's victory was clear this time.
“I'm happy because this time I have a nice picture with my arms in the air,” the runner from Soudal-Quick Step said. “It feels good. My third win of the season, first on the World Tour.”
The race was chaotic in Liwa, but Merlier stayed out of trouble. “There are a lot of people pushing their way forward, but fortunately I found the right gap. I was able to start my race on time.”
“Except for Jasper Philipsen and Caleb Ewan, all the top sprinters are here. The fact that I beat these riders shows that I have fast legs.”
It does not have to stop at one win for Merlier. “I want to win every race, just like every runner here. We will see in the coming days if that is realistic.”
The fact that Zero is already off the board gives Merlier confidence. “You have to start every year with a clean slate. Everyone has to prove themselves again, so it's good to start that way.”
“I'm happy with the way things are going and I hope to add some extra touches to the classics. This season I'm aiming to take part in Scheldeprijs, Classic Brugge-De Panne, Gent-Wevelgem, Nokere Koerse… and that's where I'm at. I hope I can From presenting my high level.”
“I noticed already in the beach races that my base condition was good. That gave me confidence for the road season. With the good results now, you know there is more to come.”
“Now I hope to grow a little extra towards the bigger business.”
Merlier will have to be patient this week. There is a time trial on the program tomorrow, and a mountain stage on Wednesday. This is followed by three consecutive opportunities for runners.
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