Alpecin‑Premier Tech wins Tour de France stage as van der Poel urges support for Philipsen

Tim Merlier claimed victory on the shortened, hot Stage 9 of the Tour de France, while teammate Jasper Philipsen finished without a win. Team director Adrie van der Poel praised Merlier's effort and warned the squad not to abandon Philipsen, saying the sprinter “must not be left behind.” He described the 30‑km stage as extremely demanding, with temperatures above 40 °C, and noted the team’s high morale despite the tough conditions. Team officials highlighted the positive lead‑out work for Philipsen in earlier stages and expressed ambition for further success in the race.

The win marks Alpecin‑Premier Tech’s first stage victory in this edition of the Tour, boosting the Belgian‑registered team’s profile and fueling hopes for additional podium finishes as the race continues through France.