The 2025 Renewi Tour kicked off with a bunch sprint as expected, but the road to the finish line was anything but straightforward. Wind, echelons and a determined breakaway made for a tense opening stage. In the end, European Champion Tim Merlier (Soudal–Quick Step) powered to his 13th win of the season, ahead of Arnaud De Lie and Sebastián Molano.
After a short delay caused by a crash behind the neutral car, seven riders broke clear, but their lead was kept under control. The peloton briefly split in the crosswinds along the Westerschelde, yet no decisive gaps formed.
At halfway, sixteen riders including Stuyven and Asgreen tried to go clear, but the sprinters’ teams never allowed them much room. The last escapees were reeled in with 4.5 km to go, setting up the expected sprint showdown.
A late crash involving Olav Kooij added to the nervous finale, but Merlier remained perfectly positioned. Guided expertly by lead-out man Bert Van Lerberghe, he launched his sprint and won with a clear margin.
The European Champion now also leads the general classification. Rui Oliveira and Dries De Bondt, who picked up bonus seconds in the “green kilometre,” complete the provisional podium.
Winner Tim Merlier said:
“It wasn’t just a straightforward sprinter’s stage. With Paul Magnier in the break we had the race under control, and the team did a fantastic job. I felt strong and was in the perfect position. This victory is a great reward for the whole squad.”
