'Fast and fun' - Magnier eyes Classics progression after breakout 2025

Reflecting on a memorable 2025 season on the Soudal Quick-Step’s Wolfpack Howls podcast, Paul Magnier admitted that he couldn’t have anticipated such success when asked if he foresaw his prolific campaign. "No, it’s always hard to believe and to predict what’s going to be the next year," said Magnier on Wolfpack Howls.

After a strong 2024 season, which saw the Frenchman claim five victories, Magnier aimed higher for 2025, and it paid off. “Every time I’m really motivated for more. I did my first season with five pro victories, and then I was motivated for four more. In the end, it went quite smoothly at the start of the season.”

“A few difficulties in April after a few crashes, but then in the end I could really enjoy riding my bike during the summer, and I had a super nice end of the season. I really felt a strong pack around me, full of confidence and motivation, and it was also the same on my side. So it was some really nice few months of racing,” added the Frenchman.

Despite great success, Magnier spoke about the importance of remaining grounded, enjoying riding his bike and continuing to fuel his hunger to win more and even bigger races. "I’m only 21 years old, and I still really believe that enjoying life and enjoying riding my bike is the most important thing, and the results will come." 

“When you feel good in your head, good with your team, this is what happens year after year. So it’s really nice to see and be part of it.

Notably, Magnier was on a red-hot streak from September to October when he won 13 times in 17 race days. Magnier was asked if he felt unbeatable during this period.

“I didn’t feel unbeatable, because every time you’re on the start line, there are a lot of riders who want to win, but I was in good shape, feeling strong. All my teammates and the staff were really supporting me, and I really felt it. It gave me an extra punch in the final."

Magnier reflected on his Grand Tour debut at the Giro d’Italia, where he finished 3rd on stage 6, but faced some criticism from the media over his performance that saw him abandon ahead of the third week. 

“I went there without pressure and without expectations. Some media said it was a bad Giro, but for me it was really good. I did two weeks and made a step forward. It was the first time I did more than a one-week race,” explained Magnier.

Magnier also touched on the impact of Tim Merlier and the dynamic of the duo being the Belgian team’s two main sprinters. “I really look at Tim [Merlier]. He has a lot of experience, has won many races, and can give me advice on preparation, mentally and physically,” said Magnier.

“Some people think competition is a bad thing, but for us it’s about supporting each other. I’d love to have another competition with 15 victories each in 2026 and fight for number 16.”

Heading into 2026, Magnier was asked to define himself as a rider and if he sees himself as a leader of the Wolfpack and his ambitions to make strides in the Classics.  “Someone once said two words to describe Paul Magnier: fast and fun. I like that,” said Magnier. 

“My expectation for next year is to continue to progress, make steps in the Classics, be in top shape at the right moments, and of course, I love winning, so I want to win a lot of races.”