The cycling world has been following the blossoming relationship between Lotte Kopecky, one of the sport’s brightest stars and Axel Merckx, son of the legendary Eddy Merckx. Now, the elder Merckx has publicly shared his thoughts on the pairing, revealing a growing admiration for his son’s partner and a newfound enthusiasm for following Kopecky’s career. The comments came as Merckx watched Kopecky compete in, and win, the women’s Milan-Sanremo race.
Eddy Merckx, widely considered the greatest cyclist of all time, recently spoke with a journalist from HLN while watching Kopecky’s victorious ride at Milan-Sanremo. The 80-year-old Merckx acknowledged that his son’s relationship naturally draws his attention to Kopecky’s races. “Because Axel is dating Lotte, you automatically watch those races. You live it with them,” Merckx confessed, a sentiment reported by several Belgian outlets.
The five-time Tour de France winner expressed his well wishes for both his son and Kopecky. “Of course, you hope for the best for your son and for Lotte too,” he said. This comes after Merckx himself faced a health scare recently, having been hospitalized following a stroke, as reported by wielernieuws.be. The incident underscores the importance of family and support within the cycling community.
Eddy Merckx: A Novel Fan of Lotte Kopecky?
Merckx’s comments suggest a growing appreciation for Kopecky’s talent and dedication. “You automatically become a bit of a supporter of Lotte Kopecky,” he emphasized. This shift in perspective highlights the personal connection that family ties bring to the sport, even at the highest levels of competition. It’s a testament to Kopecky’s impact that she’s winning over even the most iconic figures in cycling history.
The relationship between Axel Merckx and Lotte Kopecky first came to light in late December 2025, with Kopecky hinting at a new happiness in her personal life during an interview with Sporza, as reported by ProCyclingUK. Neither Kopecky nor Merckx has issued a formal public statement, respecting Kopecky’s desire to keep the focus on her athletic achievements. This discretion is consistent with Kopecky’s preference for maintaining a degree of privacy despite her growing fame.
Axel Merckx, himself a professional cyclist from 1993 to 2007, brings a wealth of experience to the relationship. The son of Eddy Merckx, he has remained deeply involved in the sport, notably through his long-standing role in rider development. His understanding of the demands and pressures faced by professional cyclists likely provides a strong foundation for his connection with Kopecky.
Lotte Kopecky’s recent success, including her victory at Milan-Sanremo, has further cemented her status as a leading figure in women’s cycling. The win was a significant achievement, showcasing her strength, tactical acumen, and determination. It’s a victory that her new supporter, Eddy Merckx, undoubtedly watched with pride.
The dynamic between a cycling dynasty and a rising star is captivating fans and observers alike. The relationship offers a glimpse into the personal lives of these athletes, adding another layer of interest to the already compelling world of professional cycling. As Kopecky continues to pursue her goals, she’ll have the support of not only her partner, Axel Merckx, but also the legendary Eddy Merckx, a man who understands the dedication and sacrifice required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Kopecky is scheduled to compete in the upcoming Tour of Flanders on April 7th. This will be another opportunity for fans – and her new, prominent supporter – to witness her talent and determination. The race is a key event on the women’s cycling calendar, and Kopecky will undoubtedly be a contender for the win.
The cycling community will be watching closely, not only to witness Kopecky’s performance but also to observe how this unique family connection unfolds. It’s a story that blends sporting excellence, personal happiness, and the enduring legacy of a cycling icon.
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