At 28, Xandro Meurisse is about to take the plunge to the World Tour. After five seasons, the Kortrijk will leave Circus-Wanty Gobert, the cocoon that allowed him to blossom at his own pace. The Cofidis and Deceuninck-Quick Step teams are interested in its services.
“Xandro is at the end of his contract. He absolutely wants to go to the World Tour, so we consider that our collaboration is over. We didn’t make him an offer. It wasn’t worth wasting energy since in his head he was already gone“, abstract Jean-Francois Bourlart, the manager. The separation took place naturally, without a cry or a tear. “It’s a sporting loss but we know our place and our budget. We take young runners and we try to bring them as high as possible. Xandro is going to leave but we are not going to cry. It is even a pride to see him sign in a World Tour team“.
In the World Tour yes, but in what colors?
For Circus-Wanty Gobert and Meurisse, it’s clear: he will ride in the World Tour next season. It remains to know its destination. We know that there were contacts with Deceuninck-Quick Step last season. But, since the runner was still under contract, the case went no further. To the chagrin of the runner.
A good climber, best Belgian of the last Tour de France, Meurisse has an interesting profile. He could find his place in the pack of Patrick lefevere. A training that will operate its transformation and strengthen in the mountains to best support the progress of a certain Remco Evenepoel.
An alternative to Jungels?
The boss of the Wolfpack does not deny an interest in Meurisse but works in priority on another file. If it is finalized, will there still be room for the winner of the Vuelta Ciclista in the Region of Murcia? How often it will depend on the team budget and the requirements of the rider.
A departure from Bob Jungels would obviously redistribute the cards and free up cash. “The goal is always to keep Bob. But if someone offers him a lot more money, I’ll let him go. I like it a lot but we are all professionals and I will understand that“.
Deceuninck-Quick Step is not the only card in the sleeve of Meurisse. The Cofidis team is also following it. According to our information, contact has already been established with those around Meurisse.
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