Soudal – Quick-Step coach reveals similarities between Magnier and Van der Poel: "Paul likes the attractive way of racing and Mathieu's flair"

In what has been a relatively subdued spring for Soudal - Quick-Step, Paul Magnier has emerged as one of the team’s brightest sparks. The young Frenchman impressed at Le Samyn, finishing second behind none other than Mathieu van der Poel, a result that hinted at his potential among cycling’s elite.

Magnier began his 2025 season in fine form, but recent weeks have been marked by a string of misfortunes. He crashed twice on the final stage of Tirreno–Adriatico and suffered more bad luck at Dwars door Vlaanderen. As a result, momentum has stalled, and expectations for the Tour of Flanders must be cautioned.

Speaking to Wieler Revue, Magnier’s coach Roman Vanstaen reflected on his development and mindset.

“The first time at altitude training I asked him about his examples. Then he answered: ‘Mathieu van der Poel.’ Paul likes the attractive way of racing and Mathieu's flair. That has an appeal to young riders. Mathieu in turn asked about Paul's wattages via Merlier.”

While his performances have been strong, Magnier is also known for his openness and playfulness, something that sets him apart.

“Paul puts everything on Strava. We are not the biggest fans of it, because it is grateful information. But yes, it suits the open character that Paul has. In that sprint against Mathieu in Le Samyn, Paul reached a peak value of over 1400 watts. In short, a good sprint, but unlike Mathieu, he no longer had that extra acceleration.”

Vanstaen also shared a story that reveals Magnier’s more relaxed, youthful side.

“Last year we were on an altitude training camp with a young team. The weather was bad and Paul and a few teammates went for a walk. They ended up in a snowstorm and came back soaking wet, while they actually still had to do a training.”

Magnier, not keen on getting straight onto the rollers, got creative.

“He then made a bet to avoid having to train. In the end it came down to shaving the mats of two boys. He's a playboy in that respect. A bit like Mathieu used to be, indeed.”

The similarities with Van der Poel don’t end there.

“Incidentally, he likes to play golf, just like Mathieu. He would like to be on the golf course with Mathieu. For Paul, cycling is a passion. He can be very serious and do everything to get into top shape, but he also wants to continue to enjoy professional life.”