AT THE START. Mathieu van der Poel “is especially looking forward to Sunday’s stage”, Tim Merlier: “I would sign for one stage”

Today, the first stage of the Renewi Tour is on the program. The riders ride from Riemst to Bilzen in what could immediately be a sprint stage. Tim Merlier smells his chances, but Jasper Philipsen will also be alert and has the ideal lead-out with Mathieu van der Poel. Of course, there are also other guys who will try to win a stage, think of Arnaud De Lie.

Today at 12:15

Mathieu van der Poel was not at the start of the Vuelta, but is here in Belgium as a final preparation towards the World Championships. “I wanted to have a longer race before the World Championships. It is also close to home and that was the most important factor to participate. There are especially many sprint opportunities for Jasper, in which he is the leader. The stage towards Sunday is one that I am especially looking forward to.”

The Vuelta could have been an option, but for MVDP that was not the case this year. “I would have preferred a bit more rest after the games and I find this approach more pleasant. The Tour and the games one after the other, that is a long period in which you are busy for a short time after the other. There were also few opportunities in the Vuelta and the weather is very warm. I will ride it one day, but perhaps not in combination with the Tour.”

“Not top favorite for World Cup”

Van der Poel also looked ahead to the World Cup. Although he does not see himself as the top favorite. “It is really difficult, so it will be on the edge. I am not the top favorite, which means that people may look a little more and you can choose your moment, but it will be difficult. I am looking forward to it.”

When asked whether Van der Poel should travel as leader for the Netherlands, he has his doubts. “I think we should go with a number of good climbers, but it is a difficult race to win anyway. Especially when riders like Pogacar have their minds set on it, but that also means that everyone will be watching him.”

“Three chances this week”

Tim Merlier is also at the start in the Renewi Tour and sees three chances this week. “I hope to participate in any case, yes. I would definitely sign for one stage, definitely. Preferably two or three, but yes… (laughs)