Meurisse wants to help others (read: Pidcock) win at Q36.5: “Just like I did with van der Poel and Philipsen in recent years.

In the world of professional cycling, few things stand out more than riders who, despite having the skill and drive to win races themselves, choose to play the supporting role and help others reach the top. One such rider who has demonstrated this selflessness time and again is Meurisse, a cyclist whose name has become synonymous with teamwork and camaraderie. His relationship with some of the biggest names in cycling, including Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen, paints a picture of a man who understands that victory isn’t just about crossing the finish line first — it’s also about getting your teammates there.

At the heart of Meurisse’s philosophy is his recent ambition to aid others in clinching victories at Q36.5, a race that has grown in stature over the years and become a proving ground for the next generation of cycling stars. This is the race where Meurisse’s strategy and expertise could once again come to the forefront.

Meurisse’s Legacy of Support

Meurisse’s career is built on the art of teamwork, and his selfless efforts have often gone unnoticed by casual fans of the sport. However, those who follow cycling closely know the true importance of a rider like him. In the years past, he played pivotal roles in the success of prominent riders like van der Poel and Philipsen.

In 2021, during the Tour of Flanders, Meurisse could have easily taken a shot at victory himself, but instead, he positioned himself as a key contributor to van der Poel’s success. On the cobbled roads, where attacks and counterattacks come thick and fast, Meurisse’s job was to control the race and help create the perfect moment for his teammate to launch his bid for victory. His presence was instrumental, allowing van der Poel to reserve his energy for the decisive moves that would ultimately secure him the win.

Similarly, Meurisse’s role in Philipsen’s success in various sprint finishes over the years is well documented. His ability to read the race and act as a buffer between his teammate and the chasing pack has allowed Philipsen to conserve energy for those explosive final bursts that he’s so famous for. In many ways, Meurisse has become the unsung hero behind many of the sprint victories that Philipsen has collected, making his efforts all the more valuable.

The Q36.5 Opportunity

With his eyes now firmly set on the upcoming Q36.5, Meurisse is not thinking about personal glory. Instead, his focus is on helping others achieve victory, just as he did in previous years with van der Poel and Philipsen. At Q36.5, a race known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions, Meurisse’s experience and tactical insight will be vital for his team.

Q36.5 isn’t just another race on the calendar — it’s a race where the strongest will be tested, and the smart, tactical riders will have the chance to shine. The course, a mixture of hard climbs, fast descents, and long, grueling flat stretches, is the perfect environment for a rider like Meurisse to help his teammates rise to the occasion.

Meurisse’s ability to read the race and adjust his strategy on the fly will be key in neutralizing attacks, chasing down dangerous breakaways, and setting up the perfect lead-out for his teammates. It’s in these moments, the small, seemingly insignificant acts of self-sacrifice, that Meurisse’s brilliance shines through. He may not be the one crossing the line first, but his impact on the outcome of the race will be undeniable.

A Philosophy of Mutual Respect

One of the most notable aspects of Meurisse’s approach is his willingness to embrace the role of a supporting rider without any qualms or regrets. It’s rare in cycling, where personal glory often comes at the expense of teammates, to find a rider who is so unselfish in his pursuit of victory.

For Meurisse, the victories of his teammates are just as meaningful as his own. His deep respect for his fellow cyclists, and the trust they place in him, creates an environment where collaboration and teamwork are the cornerstones of success. This mutual respect has earned him the admiration of his peers, and it’s this reputation that makes him a key figure on any team he rides for.

In many ways, Meurisse’s philosophy mirrors that of some of the greatest names in cycling history. Much like the legendary Eddy Merckx, who often sacrificed his own chances for the success of his team, Meurisse recognizes that a rider’s worth is not just measured by personal victories, but by the contributions they make to the success of others.

The Future of Q36.5

As the next edition of Q36.5 approaches, Meurisse’s dedication to helping others win is more evident than ever. His willingness to play a supporting role is an example of the kind of mentality that makes him an invaluable asset to any team. But it’s not just about helping others win — it’s about fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their position in the peloton, understands the value of working together toward a common goal.

With his years of experience, Meurisse’s insight into the nuances of Q36.5 and the races leading up to it will be invaluable in shaping the outcome. His ability to read the race, make key decisions, and put his teammates in the best position to win will be critical. And when the final bell rings, whether or not he crosses the finish line first, Meurisse’s contributions will have made all the difference

Meurisse’s journey in cycling has always been about more than just personal success. It’s about building a legacy of support, helping others achieve greatness, and showing that cycling is as much about the team as it is about the individual. His focus on helping van der Poel, Philipsen, and now others at Q36.5 is a testament to his dedication and his understanding of what it takes to win in the world of professional cycling.