“It definitely feels like I’m back” — Tim Merlie powers to 2nd win of 2026 with emphatic Ronde van Limburg sprint

The finale of the Ronde van Limburg 2026 returned to the most classic script: pure speed. Tim Merlier won convincingly in the bunch sprint, putting several bike lengths into Fernando Gaviria (Caja Rural - Seguros RGA) and Floris Van Tricht (NSN Development Team).

Despite a flurry of attacking moves in the final kilometres, none broke the peloton’s grip. It all came down to a sprint where the Soudal Quick-Step rider imposed himself. With a powerful, well-timed kick, the Belgian sealed his second win of the season, underlining that the physical issues he carried through the winter are behind him. “Yes, it definitely feels like I’m back. Two wins in four races, not bad,” he summed up after the line, showing both satisfaction and confidence in his current form.

The decisive phase of the race was marked by uncertainty. Wind and cobbled sectors added difficulty to an already nervous finale, with non-stop attacks. Even so, the winner’s team kept its composure and managed the race to avoid surprises.

Merlier especially praised the collective effort: the team stayed well positioned throughout and shut down break attempts to guarantee a sprint finish. Although both he and Bert Van Lerberghe found themselves slightly back in the bunch at a key point, the sprinter knew exactly where he had to be.

“The finish was pretty hectic, as there were a few more attacks, but the team was well placed and controlled the race. Bert and I were a bit further back, but I knew the corner with 1,5 kilometres to go was crucial,” the Belgian explained, stressing the tactical weight of that moment.

On the finishing straight, Merlier did not have everything under control. Gaviria’s presence forced him to rethink his plan in seconds. The Colombian, known for launching long sprints, was a direct threat.

Positioning was therefore decisive. Once on the front, the pace lifted sharply and the lead-out began to take shape. That was when Van Lerberghe moved up slightly, leaving his leader in a perfect spot to decide.

Anticipating a possible move from his rival, Merlier chose not to wait: “I already had it in mind to go early, because I thought Gaviria was on my wheel. He’s also someone who can go from far out.”

That race reading proved decisive. The Belgian chose to open up earlier than usual, avoiding becoming a target for his rivals. “I decided to launch my sprint early so I wouldn’t give him a platform to go,” he concluded.

The move was spot on: power, tactics, and timing combined to seal a win that confirms his return to top level.