“Tim is a guarantee of victories" - Philippe Gilbert delighted to see Merlier finally earn Tour de France selection at Quick-Step

For the first time since signing for Soudal - Quick-Step at the start of the 2023 season, Tim Merlier is set to represent 'The Wolfpack' at the Tour de France in 2025. A decision backed by Belgian cycling legend Philippe Gilbert.

“Tim is a guarantee of victories,” the 42-year-old Belgian says of compatriot in conversation with La Capitale, sensing a big opportunity on the very first stage. "He is discreet, he doesn't like to talk about himself or others. I am very happy that his team has agreed to his selection for the Tour de France. It is a relief for him and a medium-term motivation for a first yellow jersey."

Typically, Remco Evenepoel would garner the full backing of Soudal - Quick-Step when he turns up to a Grand Tour, allowing little room for a pure sprinter such as Merlier. Given the sprint-friendly course of the 2025 Tour de France and the fact Evenepoel's Maillot Jaune chances are something of an uncertainty following a disastrous December crash, Gilbert sees Merlier's selection as the perfect way to ensure Soudal - Quick-Step success this summer, and ease the pressure on their leader's general classification challenge.

"I don't know Tim Merlier personally, but I love watching him," Gilbert concludes. "He is pure in his sprint, which he can use from very far away or when he is led by Van Lerberghe and shows up at the last moment. He has built up a considerable record of achievements and there is no reason why that should stop."