Will Merlier join the record holders of Ronde van Limburg?
On Whit Monday, 29 May, the peloton will be coming to Hasselt for a new edition of Ronde van Limburg. We are celebrating a jubilee this year, because the Limburg classic is on its 75th edition. The provisional start list includes the name of former winner Tim Merlier. Fast men like Ewan and Limburg native Thijssen will challenge the Belgian champion.
With a third place in 2018 and a win in 2021, Tim Merlier has already proved in the past that Ronde van Limburg is his cup of tea. If he achieves a new victory, the Belgian champion can call himself co-record holder of the Limburg classic. Stan Van Tricht and lead-out Bert Van Lerberghe flank the leader of Soudal Quick-Step at the start on Kolonel Dusartplein in Hasselt. They are challenged by Lotto Dstny, which is relying on Caleb Ewan’s fast legs. Jasper De Buyst and Jacopo Guarnieri accompany their Australian leader.
At Intermarché - Circus - Wanty, all eyes will be on Gerben Thijssen. The Genk native will be supported by Julius Johansen and Boy van Poppel. Alpecin-Deceuninck is putting Timo Kielich forward. The rider from Alken has already achieved some great places in Nokere Koerse, Grand Prix de Denain and Antwerp Port Epic this season. Ronde van Limburg is also a home race for him. Kielich will be joined by Lionel Taminiaux and David van der Poel.
We will find out who will be celebrating victory on Monday 29 May on the Eeuwfeestwal in Tongeren at around 17:00. Discover the provisional start list here.
Kick-off Nieuwsblad Cycling Series
Before the pros make their appearance at the finish, the Special Olympics athletes kick off the Nieuwsblad Cycling Series. Ronde van Limburg will be the first of seven races in the competition. The athletes will compete against each other on a course of just under two kilometers around the finish zone. The Eeuwfeestwal is the setting for the start of the race at 13:00. Around 45 minutes later, we will honour the winners on the podium and pay tribute to all participants.
