As could be expected on the gruelling stage between Ypres and Arenberg, Tour doctors had to work hard to treat the many riders who crashed on wet cobbles throughout the day. The hardest hit was of course title-holder Chris Froome, forced out of the race after two crashes, the last 69 kms before the line.

The medical communique said the Briton was suffering from "bruises to the right elbow, right hip, right wrist and multiple scratches". Froome has said he is devastated to leave the race. It is the first time since 1980 a defending champion has to abandon the race. Bernard Hinault crashed and had to leave the race back then.

Among the other riders to receive treatment were John Degenkolb (GIA), runner-up in the last Paris-Roubaix, who suffers from pain to the right hip and lower back, but also Germany's Tony Martin (OPQ), a member of the day's break, who has a knee injury with wounds.

Degenkolb came in 18 minutes after the winner Lars Boom of Belkin and found himself 152 placements after the winner. ITT world champion Tony Martin was a bit luckier with his injuries and was able to finish inside top 20 on yesterdays stage.