Tim Merlier had a special day on the AlUla Tour. The Soudal Quick-Step team cyclist not only achieved his first victory of the season, but was also able to celebrate it on his son’s first birthday.
“It’s a wonderful gift. He was very motivated today and didn’t want to make mistakes. Something that happened in the last few days, but if you keep believing, eventually things will happen. Today was the day and I’m happy to dedicate the victory to my son”, he commented emotionally.
Stage challenges
The stage was not simple for the sprinters. “But I love crosswinds” said Merlier in the post-race interview. “At first everything was fine because of the headwind, but then every opportunity was used to try and attack the crosswinds.”
“At the start of the race it was a bit cold by Saudi standards, but as I battled the crosswinds I ended up warming up.” In the final straight, Merlier had to face the strong Casper van Uden. “It was a special arrival,” observed Merlier.
“It was an open area, also a bit hilly. Everything had to work and I’m glad I did things right. My colleague William Junior Lecerf was also with me, so it was a good day for us”.