Merlier Open to Riding With Magnier at Tour de France
The veteran sprinter welcomes the prospect of guiding 22-year-old rising star Paul Magnier at the 2027 Tour de France.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Cycling
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Tim Merlier has signaled he is open to partnering with Paul Magnier for the 2027 Tour de France. The potential collaboration would pair the 33-year-old sprinter with the 22-year-old talent following their respective breakout performances in 2026.
Why it matters
Merlier believes his extensive experience provides a valuable learning opportunity for the younger rider. Despite his interest, Merlier characterizes the likelihood of their partnership for the upcoming race as small.
The 2027 Tour de France route features a total elevation gain of 53,450 metres and includes two time trials. Merlier estimates there will be four sprint stages throughout the race.
The players
Tim Merlier
A 33-year-old professional cyclist who won three stages during the 2026 Tour de France.
Paul Magnier
A 22-year-old professional cyclist who recorded three stage wins at the 2026 Giro d'Italia.
The details
The 2027 course includes a stage 1 finish in Carlisle, presenting an early opportunity for sprinters. Merlier, who won three stages in the 2026 Tour, intends to utilize the two scheduled time trials as recovery periods.
Timeline
2025: Tim Merlier failed to secure the yellow jersey during a stage in Lille.
2026: Tim Merlier claimed three stage victories at the Tour de France.
2027: The Tour de France is scheduled to take place.
July 2027: Merlier and Magnier may potentially compete in a Grand Tour together.
Season Trajectory
The potential pairing of Merlier and Magnier represents a significant shift in team strategy following the successful 2026 season. Integrating a younger talent into a veteran's sprint lead-out could reshape competitive dynamics for upcoming Grand Tour stages.
Fans tracking the 2027 Tour should note that Merlier intends to treat the two time trials as rest days for his sprint preparation. The inclusion of a stage 1 finish in Carlisle will be a key tactical point for determining early sprint point leaders.
The takeaway
Developing riders often benefit significantly from the tactical mentorship of veteran sprinters in high-pressure environments like the Tour de France. Spectators should monitor official team rosters closely as July approaches to see if these two athletes are paired together.
Further reading
For more on upcoming races, visit the Cycling section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cyclingnews.
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