"I have no problem with sacrificing myself" - Tim Merlier starting without hopes of victory at Tour of Flanders

In a change to his initially planned race programme for 2024, Tim Merlier will be present for Soudal - Quick-Step at the start of the Tour of Flanders this Sunday, although without hopes for victory himself.

Rather than starting as team leader like he is more usually accustomed to, Merlier is well aware of his role as a domestique in the service of his teammates. "The team was happy with the work I had done in the Tour of Flanders last year," the Belgian recalls to Sporza. "Even though I felt that in the end, I was able to do very little for Kasper Asgreen. I had hoped to last longer."

Although, as mentioned, Merlier is usually team leader whenever he rides, in and amongst the fight for victory more often than not, he has no issue with this adapted role he will be used for in Flanders. "I know the region very well. My job is to work with Bert Van Lerberghe to put the men in a good position," he explains.

"I have shown in the past that I am a team player," concludes the 31-year-old, who has six wins under his belt already this campaign, including his now standard victory at Nokere Koerse. "Those boys do a lot for me throughout the season. I have no problem with sacrificing myself. I also know that I will not control the Tour of Flanders itself."