Four-times Tour de France winner Chris Froome was airlifted to hospital in Toulon after suffering a training crash which left him with broken ribs and a back fracture, his team Israel-Premier Tech said on Thursday.
His team added that the 40-year-old suffered the crash on Wednesday but no other cyclists or vehicles were involved.
"Fortunately, Chris is stable and did not sustain any head injuries," a statement on social media said.
"However, scans have confirmed a pneumothorax, five broken ribs, and a lumbar vertebrae fracture, for which he will undergo surgery this afternoon."
Froome has won seven Grand Tours which also include two Vuelta a Espana victories and one in the Giro d'Italia.
Man City accept Barcelona bid for Spain midfielder Rodri, say reports
Ngah’s double leads Cameroon to maiden Women’s Cup of Nations title
Arsenal beat Man City 3-0 to win Community Shield
Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement amid 'last year' claims
Sri Lanka fight back through spinners but India 460-9
