“I wouldn’t be surprised if Paul Magnier strikes straight away in Mallorca. He is world class.”
These were the words of Wolfpack scout Johan Molly 2 weeks ago at the media day of Soudal-Quick Step. And he’s on top of it.
When our compatriot Victor Vercouille (Flanders-Baloise) was the last survivor to be swallowed up by the peloton today, there were plenty of sprint trains.
Soudal-Quick Step, including Lampaert as a wagon, blew all other trains off the tracks.
American neo-pro Luke Lamperti was the first to come out of the final bend and rolled out the red carpet for another neo-pro: Paul Magnier.
The 19-year-old Frenchman won with his fingers in his nose on the slightly sloping finish. His first professional victory. And also the 1st victory in 2024 for Lefevere’s men. Lamperti shared in the joy as 3rd.
On the Belgian side, the spots were aimed at Gerben Thijssen (Intermarché-Wanty). But our compatriot was not involved in the commotion.
“Winning on my debut obviously feels great,” the French neo-pro exulted. “I can’t find the right words to explain how I feel right now.”
“I’m only 19 years old and I don’t know what type of rider I am. I didn’t dare to dream of this victory.”
Magnier thanks Gianni Moscon, Yves Lampaert and Luke Lamperti for the lead-out. “We had a plan and we followed it from the start.”
