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Tim Merlier captures his second stage victory at the Tour de Hongrie, showcasing his sprinting prowess on a challenging, rainy day. This win not only solidifies Merlier's dominance but also puts him back in the overall lead with two stages remaining.
The Soudal-QuickStep rider navigates a chaotic finish, launching off Fernando Gaviria's wheel to take the win. Gaviria finishes second, with Juan Sebastián Molano from UAE Team Emirates-XRG rounding out the podium in third. The final kilometers are marked by unpredictable conditions, with wide, wet roads complicating the sprint.
Jayco-AlUla plays a key role in controlling the race, catching the last of five breakaway riders with 13 kilometers to go. As the race approaches its climax, Merlier’s team asserts itself, with Yves Lampaert creating a gap only to be caught moments later. Merlier’s timing proves perfect, allowing him to sprint to victory.
This stage also features the race's first significant climbing, with two third-category climbs throughout the 152.8-kilometer route from Kaposvár to Szekszárd. With bonus seconds from his stage wins, Merlier's victory reshapes the overall standings, setting the stage for an exciting finish in the coming days.
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