Two-time world champion Julian Alaphilippe was one of many cyclists sent flying off the road during the Strade Bianche race in Italy.
During a gravel section of the 180km race, vicious winds pounded the peloton from the right, causing mayhem among the riders.
Alaphilippe had unclipped from his pedal to retain balance, when a rival crashed in front of him, sending him somersaulting over his handlebars and into a neighbouring field. Fortunately, the Frenchman was able to tumble back to his feet and rejoin the field, as it raced towards the finish-line at Siena.
"I don't know what happened at the fall," he said. "There was a lot of wind, which made it very dangerous.
"I think someone went down in front of me, making it impossible for me to avoid the crash. I've hurt my back."
Alaphilippe and a chase group eventually caught the leaders after a 25km pursuit, but with his own hopes dashed, he turned his attention to helping Quickstep teammate Kasper Asgreen finish third.
Alaphilippe would place 58th, eight minutes behind winner Tadej Pogacar, while Kiwi Tom Scully was among those who limped home near the back of the field in 78th, 13 minutes back.
