Alpecin-Fenix manager confirms Merlier's departure, assures Philipsen's leadership despite Nationals outcome

Christoph Roodhooft is the manager of Alpecin-Fenix and he was asked about the results in the Belgian national championships, in which he confirmed new champion Tim Merlier will be riding for Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team next year.

"Tim Merlier wins today, but Tim Merlier will drive for Patrick Lefevere next year. Only: he will take the title today for Alpecin," Roodhooft told Sporza after the race. With Alpecin finishing first and third, it was a successful race as the sprinters had their opportunity to succeed.

Merlier is leaving for a rival team though, and team's long-term prospect Jasper Philipsen will be leading the team at the Tour de France. Asked if it was a blow to see Merlier win and not Philipsen, he responded: "That's a difficult question. I'm happy for Tim and for the team. If he doesn't win, Jordi Meeus wins and we have nothing at all. As a team we rode a fantastic race, in a professional way."

Merlier will not be at the Tour de France, however the manager of the Belgian team assured that he will be showing the Belgian jersey throughout the rest of the season: "You can only take 8 riders and we are going full for stage wins with Jasper. But I am sure we will see Tim often this autumn."