Tim Merlier has grown into cycling via cyclocross, but has transitioned into the road to become one of the most successful sprinters in the peloton. Now, his focus in the off-road discipline is lesser, but he has returned and eyes the Belgian jersey.
The Belgian has conquered once again the Belgian title on the road and will be looking to repeat the feet in the dirt. Although he couldn't succeed at the Vuelta a Espana - the only Grand Tour of his season, he managed to take some wins throughout the year including the nationals, the Brugge-De Panne classic and a stage at Tirreno-Adriatico. As he changes outfits towards Soudal - Quick-Step in 2023, he will be eyeing new goals aswell.
As was the case last season, Merlier began his stint in cyclocross in France, this time at the Cyclo-cross d'Orée d'Anjou, where he finished second to Valentin Guillaud. However, the sprinter will be building his form into the coming month.
More races can be added to his calendar, however it has been expressed that he is likely to race in Koksijde, the Belgian national championships in Lokeren and the GP Otegem.
🇧🇪 Tim Merlier begins his short CX season on Sunday in France in the 🇫🇷 Cyclo-cross d'Orée d'Anjou. Koksijde, BK Lokeren and Otegem are already on his schedule for January when he will be racing for Soudal-Quick Step. In between he hopes to add a few extra races.
