Merlier Claims 15th Win of Season at Omloop van het Houtland
LICHTERVELDE, Belgium – Tim Merlier (Soudal-QuickStep) powered to victory at teh Omloop van het Houtland on Sunday, marking his 15th win of a stellar season. The European Champion outsprinted a charging field to claim the win on the 198.7km course from Eernegem to Lichtervelde in West Flanders.
Merlier’s triumph comes as he nears the end of his time wearing the European Champion’s jersey, which he will relinquish to puncheurs and climbers at the upcoming race in France on October 5. He will have one final chance to showcase the iconic white and blue kit at the Münsterland Giro next friday, where he will aim for a 16th victory.
“I felt like I didn’t have to push myself to the limit,” Merlier said after the race. “Fernando Gaviria (movistar) surprised me a bit, but Bert [Van Lerberghe] made a really good move. Once I had some freedom, I was able to do my thing.”
Max Kanter (XDS Astana) finished second, following repeated attacks by his teammates Yevgeniy Fedorov and Max Kanter throughout the final hour of racing. Arne Marit (Intermarché-Wanty) secured third place,completing a podium largely dominated by riders from the host nation.
The almost fully flat route provided a favorable stage for sprinters, allowing Merlier to capitalize on his speed and tactical positioning.
Results
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