“Small decisions throughout the race made a huge difference at the finish line”
Tim Merlier won Stage 12 of the Tour de France 2026 after a powerful sprint finish in Chalon-sur-Saône. The Belgian rider from Soudal Quick-Step delivered another impressive performance.
The 179.1 km stage from Nevers to Chalon-sur-Saône suited the sprinters. Teams controlled the race and caught the breakaway riders before the final kilometres.
Merlier showed perfect timing during the final sprint. He avoided a late crash and launched a strong attack near the finish line. He beat Olav Kooij and Jasper Philipsen to secure the victory.
Merlier finished the stage in 4 hours, 10 minutes, and 55 seconds. He recorded an average speed of around 42.8 km/h. This win became his third stage victory in the 2026 Tour de France.
The result highlights Merlier’s consistency and sprinting ability. He remains one of the strongest riders to watch in this year’s Tour de France.