A spectator was hit by Ineos Grenadiers’ team car during the Tour de France on Saturday.
The incident occurred during the 14th stage of the race around 200 metres from the summit of the Col de Peyresourde climb.
Ineos rider, Thymen Arensman, was the solo leader during the tough mountain stage, while his teammate, Carlos Rodriguez, was at the front of the group behind.
Ineos’ red team car was tracking Rodriguez’s group and a spectator, who was dressed in yellow trousers and a bright green jacket, was stood in the road filming the action with their phone.
However, the spectator stood still while filming the riders and was knocked to the ground after being struck by the side of the car, which immediately stopped following the collision.
‘It’s always very complicated on these passes,’ said RMC Sport’s Tour de France analyst Jerome Coppel.
‘There are people on both sides of the road, which isn’t very wide. The team directors have to get back up and ensure safety in case the leading rider gets a puncture.
‘They try to get back up, and the counter group won’t let them pass. There isn’t enough space, and sometimes, unfortunately, we see this kind of thing. The driver risks being penalised.’
Coppel, who competed in six Tour de France races, added: ‘Having been in the car behind the peloton, it’s really complicated when you have to move up the line.’
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