Merlier Wins European Champs as Milan Blows Big Team Effort

Milan's big team effort bursts at the seams during the final moments of the European Championships

Jasper Philipsen looked set to win the bunch sprint at the end of the men's European Championships road race, but with under 200 meters to go, Sam Bennett launched a slingshot from behind. But the Irishman came from too far back. Philipsen looked set to retain his title, but then he was passed by Tim Merlier on the line.

It was a bitter blow for Bennett and also for Milan, who had done so much of the work during the race. The Italian team had controlled the pace on the front of the peloton for much of the day, and they had also been the most active in trying to chase down the breakaway. With 35km to go, their trio of Sonny Colbrelli, Giacomo Nizzolo and Davide Cimolai were joined by Team DSM's Soren Kragh Andersen and formed a group of five out front. They quickly built a gap of more than a minute, and it looked like the race was theirs for the taking.

As the bunch approached the finish, Milan continued to chase and gradually reduced the gap. However, with 5km to go, Nizzolo crashed, taking down both Colbrelli and Andersen with him. That left Cimolai as the only Milan rider in the front group, and he was soon caught by the bunch.

With 200 meters to go, it was Philipsen who led the bunch sprint. Bennett came from behind to challenge him, but he could not quite get past. However, Merlier had a clear run on the inside, and he came past both Philipsen and Bennett to take the win.

Merlier's victory is a major upset, but it is also a just reward for his hard work and dedication. The Belgian rider has been in excellent form all season, and he has now added the European Championship title to his palmares.

For Milan, it is a disappointing end to what had been a promising race. However, they can take heart from the fact that they rode well as a team and that they were unlucky to lose three riders in the crash. They will now turn their attention to the World Championships, which will be held in Flanders later this month.

Conclusion

Merlier's victory is a reminder that anything can happen in a bike race. Even the biggest teams can be beaten if they are not careful. Milan will learn from their mistakes and come back stronger at the World Championships.