"We can’t wait to see Tim in action in his beautiful new jersey" - Tim Merlier to debut as European Champion at the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen

Tim Merlier will sport the European Champion jersey for the first time at the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen, less than a week since becoming the first Belgian male rider to win the continental title.

Victorious in 14 races this season, the 31-year-old will lead Soudal - Quick-Step on Friday in a race that the Belgian team has won five times so far. Merlier will be joined by Ayco Bastiaens, Josef Cerny, Bert Van Lerberghe, Warre Vangheluwe, Jordi Warlop and Senne Hulsmans from the Development team.

"Koolskamp is a race with a long tradition, a race which usually ends up in a bunch sprint. We can’t wait to see Tim in action in his beautiful new jersey and we’ll try to support him so that he can go for a good result. We have a strong team for this and a lot of confidence, so we’re looking forward to the challenge. We also can’t wait to see Senne Hulsmans in action in what will be his first outing with the World Tour squad," said sports director Tom Steels.

If things don't work out at Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen, another opportunity for Merlier will come on Sunday at the Gooikse Pijl. He'll once again be able to count on dedicated team in which Warre Vangheluew and Senne Hulsmans will be replaced by Gil Gelders and former Belgian Champion Yves Lampaert.