Road European champion Tim Merlier confirmed to appear in several crosses this winter: "It's nice that he doesn't deny his roots"

Soon, European cyclocross Champion Thibau Nys will be joined by another man with blue stripes and yellow stars on his jersey. Albeit from road. Sprinter Tim Merlier will remember his cross roots and also this winter, he'll get down and dirty on several occassions. Adding to his pre-season preparation, the Belgian speedster will attend several beach races and also few cyclocrosses this winter.

During the Urban Cross in Kortrijk, Paul Herygers suddenly came up with news about the plans of the speed devil from Soudal - Quick-Step. "Here and there the rumor was already circulating that he would do everything he could for the Belgian Cyclocross Championship in Zolder," the co-commentator began at Sporza. "Because there could well be a sprint there. You never know in such a royal sprint, although I think those plans will fall through."

Why does Herygers think that? The Belgian Championships is not included in Merlier's program. "He's going to do some beach races first on 1/12 and 22/12," he says. "On 27/12 he'll really come and race in Loenhout. Then there's 29/12 in Besançon and 4/1 in Gullegem."

Ruben Van Gucht still has hope. "Maybe he'll take stock after that," he tries. "In any case, it's nice that he doesn't deny his roots and, Stybar-style, makes time to return to cyclo-cross."