TIM MERLIER in search of victories
But this year, the Soudal Quick-Step will not bet everything on the general classification, since it also aligns Tim Merlier At the start of this 112nd edition. Considered the best sprinter in the world, the Belgian will be keen to shine on the Tourfor his first participation since … 2021, where he had won a stage. And he will be accompanied by his pilot fish Bert Van Lerberghe.
Versatile Mattia Cattaneo, Maximilian Schachmann et Pascal Eenkhoorn will also be part of the adventure.
“Win a step and make a good general classification”
“It's my second round in France and I can't wait to be at the big start, which will not be far from Belgium”declared Remco Evenepoel. “I think it is obvious that I aim for a good general classification, but the most important thing will be not to waste time in the first half of the race, which promises to be very nervous, with a lot of traps and traps. Like last year, I want to win a stage and make a good general classification, while taking things day after day.”
“The race can be divided into two parts”continues Tom Steelssports director of the Soudal Quick-Step. “A very agitated first half, without a real mountain stage, but with an individual flat trustee where deviations can be created, and many opportunities for sprinters and sneakers. Tim and Remco will have some occasions, but what will matter above all is that everyone passes these first ten stages. Difficult, but even the last step in Paris could play a role in the general classification.
