A SPECTATOR was hit by an Ineos team car and sent flying into the air during the Tour de France.
The shocking scenes unfolded on Saturday during the 14th stage of the race.
XAn Ineos car hit a spectator during the Tour de France[/caption]
GettySir Jim Ratcliffe owns the Ineos Grenadier cycling team[/caption]
At around 200 metres from the summit of the climb up Col de Peyresourde, Ineos’ Thymen Arensman was in the lead.
His teammate Carlos Rodriguez was just behind at the head of the chasing pack.
And that group was being followed by an Ineos Grenadier car, with the team owned by Manchester United chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
However, disaster struck as an unfortunate fan got in the way.
The spectator had stepped out in the road to film cyclists on a mobile phone.
But they did not see the Ineos car coming close behind on their side of the pavement.
The vehicle appeared to only spot the supporter at the last moment too.
And the fan was hit by the Ineos car, sending them flying into the air.
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SunSport understands that the supporter who was struck by the vehicle is OK.
An Ineos spokesperson told SunSport: “Our thoughts and sincere apologies go out to the fan who was accidentally and regretfully hit by one of our race cars while supporting the riders during today’s stage.
“Like all teams we take great care to maintain a safe race environment for everyone — including the passionate fans who make our sport so special.”
Viewers reacted instantly on social media to condemn the supporter though, with one saying: “Give the riders room, please and thanks.”
Another declared: “Don’t get on the road.”
One noted: “Frankly it’s a miracle this doesn’t happen more.”
Another added: “No sympathy.”
RMC Sport’s Tour de France analyst Jerome Coppel also commented on the incident.
He said: “It’s always very complicated on these passes. 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. Having been in the car behind the peloton, it’s really complicated when you have to move up the line.”
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