Tim Merlier wins the sixth stage of the UAE Tour 2025

Sharjah 24: Belgian cyclist Tim Merlier claimed victory in the sixth and penultimate stage of the 2025 UAE Tour, held in Abu Dhabi. This classic speed stage, covering a 165 km distance, saw Merlier outperform his competitors and set a new record in the UAE Tour.

Merlier sets new record

Merlier, the European champion and Soudal Quick Step team rider, achieved his seventh stage win, surpassing Slovenian Tadej Pogacar's record of five wins. He completed the race in 3 hours, 44 minutes, and 14 seconds, with a strong performance that left Jasper Philipsen and Jonathan Milan in second and third place, respectively.

Pogacar maintains overall lead

Despite Merlier's victory, Tadej Pogacar, the Emirates XRG team rider and world champion, kept his lead in the overall standings. With a total time of 19:24:48 hours, Pogacar holds a 21-second lead over British rider Joshua Tarling and 27 seconds ahead of Movistar's Ivan Romeu.

Points and jersey standings

Jonathan Milan, Lidl Trek rider, remained in the lead for the green jersey with 65 points, while Merlier advanced to second place with 56 points. Djordje Juric maintained the black jersey for medium-speed stages, and Joshua Tarling held the white jersey for the best young rider.

Final stage in Al Ain

The UAE Tour will conclude with the seventh and final stage in Al Ain, featuring a 176 km mountainous race that includes the challenging ascent of Jebel Hafeet. The stage will determine the overall champion of the tour.