CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE, France.– The Belgian Tim Merlier once again demonstrated his dominance in sprint finishes by conquering this Wednesday the 11th stage of the 2026 Tour de France, achieving his third victory in the current edition and the sixth of his career in the French tour.
The Soudal Quick-Step rider prevailed in a chaotic final sprint, marked by a multi-rider crash in the last kilometer that altered the finish, although it did not prevent the duel between the main sprinters of the peloton. Merlier crossed the finish line ahead of the Dutchman Olav Kooij, while the Belgian Jasper Philipsen completed the day’s podium.
The stage did not cause any changes in the general classification, which continues to be led by the Slovenian Tadej Pogacar, firm on his path towards a possible fifth Tour title.
A triumph with a special dedication
After the victory, Merlier confessed that the presence of his partner and his son Jules at the finish line was an extra motivation to seek the triumph.
“Achieving three victories in a Tour is something impressive. Having my son and my partner here made this victory even more special,” expressed the 33-year-old cyclist.
The Belgian acknowledged that he even started the day with more nerves than usual due to his family’s visit, although he assured that during the race he felt strong and confident.
Overcame technical problems
Merlier also revealed that he suffered issues with his team’s communication after losing contact with the support vehicle due to a radio failure. However, he highlighted the work of his teammates in maintaining the strategy during the decisive stretch.
“Today the communication was much better. Jasper Stuyven kept his cool and the finish suited my characteristics perfectly,” he noted.
With this new success, Merlier consolidates his status as the most effective sprinter of the 2026 Tour, while Pogacar retains the yellow jersey at the head of the general classification before facing the upcoming mountain stages.
