Merlier Claims Another Sprint Victory After Heroic Solo Effort by Van der Poel
Tim Merlier stormed to his second stage win at the Tour de France 2024, claiming victory in Stage 9 at Châteauroux. His win came after an epic breakaway attempt by Mathieu van der Poel, who was heartbreakingly caught just 700 metres from the finish line. The Belgian sprinter, backed by his Soudal Quick-Step team, edged past Jonathan Milan and Arnaud De Lie in a thrilling sprint finish.
Despite the drama at the finish, there were no major changes in the general classification. Tadej Pogacar retained the yellow jersey and remains 54 seconds ahead of Remco Evenepoel, with French rider Kévin Vauquelin in third place. Merlier credited Evenepoel’s selfless support, saying, “It’s mad, we are supposed to be helping him (Evenepoel) but he’s helping us.”
Van der Poel’s Grit Steals the Spotlight Despite Missed Win
The day’s headlines also belonged to Van der Poel, whose gutsy 173km breakaway with teammate Jonas Rickaert captivated fans. Averaging an astonishing 49.9kph, they opened up a lead of over five minutes. Rickaert, who claimed the combativity award, dropped back near the end, leaving Van der Poel alone in the final kilometres.
“We hadn’t expected to get that far,” Van der Poel admitted, reflecting on how close they came to glory. “It’s hard to not be able to finish it off, but we put on a good show.” Although reeled in near the end, his effort only enhanced his growing Tour de France legacy.
Meanwhile, road signs honoring Mark Cavendish marked Châteauroux’s connection to Tour history. Cavendish won three stages in the town across 2008, 2011, and 2021, cementing his place in British cycling folklore.
Pogacar Eyes Mountain Showdown After Almeida’s Exit
Pogacar’s team faced a blow with João Almeida withdrawing due to injuries sustained in a crash earlier in the race. “It’s a big loss. He was in good shape,” Pogacar said, expressing respect for his fallen teammate. Almeida’s exit means fewer climbing domestiques for the yellow jersey contender in the challenging mountain stages ahead.
Stage 10 promises fireworks with eight classified climbs in the Massif Central, coinciding with France’s national holiday on July 14. Pogacar expects pressure from the Visma team, especially from his main rival Jonas Vingegaard. “There will be attacks from the main contenders, it’s up and down all day,” Pogacar predicted. Still, he remains confident in his team’s depth.
