Ciclamino winner Magnier backs Merlier to continue Quick-Step sprint success at Tour: 'Tim is truly the fastest'

With three stage victories in just his second Grand Tour, Paul Magnier has illustrated his immense talent and given another confirmation that he is one of the very best in the business. 

While things didn’t go his way in the final sprint in Rome, where he finished 11th, Magnier reflected on a sensational Giro and credited his Soudal Quick-Step teammates for their support throughout. 

“Yeah, it’s true that I think I’ve shown I can be among the best sprinters in the world. I’d also like to thank the team, who did an exceptional job. I think I had one of the best lead-outs on this stage, and my legs were feeling really strong too,” Magnier told reporters, including CyclingPro.net, at the finish. 

Key lieutenant Jasper Stuyven (Soudal Quick-Step) even joined a late, unsuccessful breakaway with Filippo Ganna (Netcompany Ineos) and Matteo Sobrero (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe). 

Stuyven now pivots to the Tour de France to anchor the lead-out for Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step), who won two Tour stages last July. Magnier backed his teammate for more success.

“I think Jasper [Stuyven] will now focus on the Tour de France with Tim Merlier. I wish them all the best,” said Magnier. 

“I think Tim [Merlier] is truly the fastest sprinter in the world, and I hope he’ll be able to shine at the Tour de France. As for me, I’m going to try to rest up to have a strong end to the season.”

Magnier also shed some light on his next goals for the season, including winning another distinctive jersey and returning to a race where he was victorious in 2025.

“I think the main focus will be the French Championships, followed by the end of the season with the Tour de Pologne,” said Magnier.