Tim Merlier claimed victory in the opening stage of Paris-Nice, securing an early lead in the general classification with a dominant sprint finish. The Belgian rider from Soudal Quick-Step completed the 156.1km flat stage around the greater Paris region in 3 hours, 32 minutes, and 3 seconds. French cyclist Arnaud Démare finished second, while Italy’s Alberto Dainese took third place in the final dash to the line.
Reflecting on his triumph, the 32-year-old Merlier expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating that he was proud to win at Paris-Nice. He refrained from calling himself the world’s best sprinter but emphasized his focus on seizing opportunities and winning as much as possible. Acknowledging the potential impact of the weather in the coming days, he noted that conditions so far had been ideal for racing.
Defending champion Matteo Jorgenson of the United States finished 46th but managed to pick up a time bonus in the finale. His teammate at Visma, Jonas Vingegaard, a two-time Tour de France winner, ended the stage in 33rd place, while Denmark’s Mads Pedersen, considered one of the top contenders, finished 12th. The race continues Monday with the second stage, as the peloton moves from Montesson to Bellegarde in the Centre-Val de Loire region, with another sprint finish expected.
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