Team Ineos have confirmed that Chris Froome sustained multiple severe fractures in his high-speed crash during a recon of Stage 4 of the Criterium du Dauphine.
In a statement released this evening, the team said that Froome had sustained major injuries that included a fractured right femur, a fractured elbow and multiple fractured ribs.
Team Ineos doctor Richard Usher commented, 'Chris was taken to Roanne Hospital where initial examinations confirmed multiple injuries, most notably a fractured right femur and right elbow. He has also suffered fractured ribs. He is now being airlifted to St Etienne University Hospital for further treatment.'
'On behalf of the team, I would like to commend the treatment he received from the emergency services and all at Roanne Hospital in assessing and stabilising him.
'We will now turn our focus towards supporting him in his recovery.'
The shocking crash occurred before today's stage while Froome was riding the day's individual time-trial course with teammate Wout Poels.
Team manager Dave Brailsford earlier told the press that the incident happened towards the end of the recon and that Froome had hit a low-lying wall at around 60kmh after a gust of wind had blown his front wheel out of control.
It is believed that Froome had one hand away from the bars at the time to blow his nose.
Brailsford had already confirmed that Froome's injuries would see him miss the Tour de France next month, preventing him the opportunity of contesting a record-equalling fifth yellow jersey.
While the team can turn to defending Tour champion Geraint Thomas to fight for victory in France next month, Brailsford admitted that the absence of Froome will be noticed.
'One of our big strengths on this team is coming together in difficult moments, and we will ensure we do everything possible to support Chris and his family,' said Brailsford, adding, 'Even though we all recognise the risks involved in our sport, it’s always traumatic when a rider crashes and sustains serious injuries.
'Chris had worked incredibly hard to get in fantastic shape and was on track for the Tour, which unfortunately he will now miss.
'One of the things which sets Chris apart is his mental strength and resilience – and we will support him totally in his recovery, help him to recalibrate and assist him in pursuing his future goals and ambitions.'