Tim Merlier wins opening stage of UAE Tour

Monday, 19 February 2024 19:10

By ARN News Staff

Belgian cyclist Tim Merlier has won Stage 1 of the sixth edition of the UAE Tour.

The Soudal Quick-Step rider finished ahead of Arvid De Kleijn (Tudor Pro Cycling) and Jakub Mareckzo (Team Corratec – Vini Fantini).

Merlier is also the first Red Jersey of the race as he leads the General Classification.

The opening stage featured 141 km of riding through the desert from Al Dhafra Walk to Liwa.

Its finale was marred by a chaotic bunch sprint that saw several riders crash just before the finish line.

"A win is always nice but to get my first WorldTour win of the season is even nicer. I made the right decision to switch side of the road with 500 meters to go. Gaviria and Molano went from far out in the headwind. I made a bit of a mistake with the choice of the gear but the finish line was enough to make it up," said Merlier speaking seconds after the stage finish.

"I want to win every flat stage of the UAE Tour but it’s not easy because the competition is very high. Almost every top sprinter is here. I’m already happy with one win and it takes the pressure off," he added.

More from Sports News

England dismiss Pakistan for 110 to seize control of Lord's test

A day Pakistan began with high hopes of making a real contest of the second test ended with them plummeting towards another heavy defeat as England seized total control at Lord's, bowling them out for 110 and building a lead of 261 on Friday.
Raphinha, Fermin score as Barcelona beat Athletic in home opener

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored as Barcelona beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at the Camp Nou on Thursday in their first home match of the LaLiga season.
Celtic and Rangers to play cup match behind closed doors after pitch invasion

'Old Firm' rivals Celtic and Rangers must play their next home Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors after clashes between the Glasgow clubs' fans following this year's quarter-final at Ibrox.
Chelsea and Fulham reach League Cup third round as Welbeck scores on debut

Chelsea has eased into the League Cup third round with a 2-0 victory over third-tier Luton Town on Thursday as Danny Welbeck marked his debut with a goal in Xabi Alonso's first competitive home match in charge.
PSG to meet Barca, Man City as Champions League draw throws up marquee ties

Champions League holders Paris St Germain will take on Barcelona and Manchester City in this season's league phase, while record 15-time champions Real Madrid will face Inter Milan and Arsenal after Thursday's draw in Monaco set up several mouth-watering clashes.