Elia Viviani was involved in a massive crash as the 103rd edition of Scheldeprijs reached a dramatic conclusion.

Viviani was in a plumb position as the race passed under the flamme rouge, but went careering into the barriers after two riders crashed immediately in front of him. The tumble caused a huge pile-up behind, with around 50 riders sent sprawling across the road.

Indeed, only 14 riders emerged to contest the sprint, with Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) outpacing Edward Theuns (Topsport Vlaanderen - Baloise) and Yauheni Hutarovich (Bretagne - Séché Environnement) to continue his fine run of form.

Bernhard Eisel also avoided the crash, and was Team Sky’s highest-placed finisher in 13th place having undertaken lead-out duties before the carnage ensued.

In stark contrast, much of the race had passed predictively enough with seven riders forming the day’s breakaway before Team Sky helped reel them in 4km from home.

Ian Stannard, Luke Rowe, Geraint Thomas and Andy Fenn had all taken big turns on the front to guide Viviani into contention, with Eisel also keeping the pace high before the crash derailed the Italian’s chances of success.

Kristoff meanwhile, bided his time brilliantly on the closing straight, and rounded Marc Sarreau (FDJ) before wrapping up his 11th win of the season.

Viviani was taken to hospital for X-Rays shortly after the race, with team Doctor Richard Freeman confirming that sprinter had thankfully avoided any serious injury.

He said: "Elia was caught up in a really violent crash at the end of the race and was transported to hospital for precautionary X-Rays and checks. Those have revealed soft tissue injuries but no fractures.

"After treatment the team's medical staff will continue to monitor Elia in the coming days."

Sports Director Servais Knaven also gave his reaction to a sad end to the race, adding: “Elia had a lot of pain in his arm and ribs. It was a nasty crash and everything had been going well for us before it.

“Obviously, it’s a shame for Elia, but the rest of the guys are in good shape for Paris-Roubaix on Sunday.

“The race was 200km long today and we’d planned to ride another 50km after it, but the delays with the crash caused meant that had to be cancelled. Instead, the riders are coming to my house, which is near the finish line, as they want to see the bike I won Roubaix on back in 2001, and my cobble stone trophy.

“Hopefully that will give them some inspiration, and although we’re disappointed to lose Elia, we’re still looking forward to Sunday.”