Tim Merlier took a big win on Wednesday, sprinting to Scheldeprijs success ahead of his Belgian sprint rival, Jasper Philipsen. As such, confidence is high for Merlier heading into this weekend's Paris-Roubaix.
"I believe something is possible," the 31-year-old Belgian, who now has seven wins already this season, assesses of his Paris-Roubaix chances after Scheldeprijs glory, in conversation with In de Leiderstrui. "I'm not talking about winning, but I do think something is possible. An ideal scenario would be the Philipsen scenario from Milano-Sanremo: with fifteen men to the line and then being just fast enough. But I can also ride with them and put the team in a comfortable position."
Leading Soudal - Quick-Step at a monument is a big thing for Merlier, something that seemed far off not so long ago. "If you had told me that five years ago, I wouldn't have believed it," he admits honestly. "I think we have enough talent, but with some leaders, it's hard to switch gears mentally when things aren't going well. It's like a sprinter who can't win early in the season; then it usually takes longer to get going. Now we have proven that we won't be easily outdone."
"Weather conditions can be unpredictable. One moment it's raining, then it's 24 degrees, and then it's windy again. I've already scoped it out with Bert Van Lerberghe," Merlier concludes. "He's my best buddy since I was twelve years old. We often have discussions, but that's what makes it fun."
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