Soudal - Quick-Step want to invest in Paul Magnier as leader for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad: "But he's still young and reckless"
Cycling
Soudal - Quick-Step is not in a position to show its teeth ahead of the start of classics campaign. Only Yves Lampaert is left of the once feared Wolfpack that used to tear apart the peloton with its fierce attacks. In 2025, they'll be once again on defense and awaiting their chances to strike with one of their sprinters; either Tim Merlier or Paul Magnier.
"You can tell that our classics core is a victim of the focus on stage races," admits Yves Lampaert in voices collected by Sporza. "We also no longer have the big names like 5 or 10 years ago. We don't have Van der Poel or Van Aert. We feel that too."
According to ex-manager Patrick Lefevere, it's become increasingly difficult to compete with those big names as a collective. "Certain teams have also done well by copying our successful formula. There are still a few of our riders who can win. A lot is expected of Paul Magnier, but this is all new to him and they shouldn't make that boy crazy."
Magnier joined the rest of the team for a reconnaissance on Wednesday morning. "No, I don't feel any pressure at all," claimed the Frenchman. After all, it's his debut and the weight of result doesn't lie on his shoulders for the time being.
"I will discover this race and that is why I am doing reconnaissance today. This way I can get to know the course better. The Omloop will be a difficult race, but we have a solid team with several assets. And if I'm still there in the final, I'll use my sprint."
Lampaert can become the guide of the French sprinter. "He's a bit of a filou," grins the experienced Belgian. "He's still young and reckless. I'll share all my tips with him."
"We are investing in young talents like Magnier," confided Lefevere's successor Jurgen Foré. "We cannot put him under too much pressure yet, but it is a change for the future. But I also admit that we still need to strengthen ourselves. Discussions are already underway for that with a view to next year. We are keeping our eyes open to attract reinforcements."
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