Philippe Gilbert managed to walk away from a horror crash at the Tour De France today.
The Belgian rider lost control of his bike on a descent on stage 16 of the famous bike race before careering off the road and into a wall in dramatic fashion.
The 36-year-old, who rides for Quick-Step Floors, somersaulted over the top of his handlebars and into the thick growth in shocking fashion when trying to extend his lead on the stage, and at first, it was easy to fear the worst.
Somehow though, the decorated Belgian cyclist clambered to his feet having been helped up the bank and even managed to get back on his bike in a stunning show of bravery and strength.
The 2012 world champion did look a little ginger as he climbed back into he saddle but a thumbs up to the camera was comforting for TV viewers who had clearly been shocked by the incident.
Gilbert had been looking to eek out some more time from his rivals on the day and this incident once again proved just how brave these athletes are at the very highest level.
The Tour De France is one of the premier sporting events in the world and top level cyclists will pus themselves to the limit in a bid to win even one stage of the famed race.
Even before this remarkable crash, it had been a controversial stage with the race suspended earlier in the day following a protest from French farmers. The protest ended with the riders needing medical attention after pepper spray was used on those looking to disrupt the race.
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