A spectator has been hospitalised with serious injuries following a high-speed collision during the Men's Villawood Classic in Adelaide.
The devastating crash occurred on the final lap of the Tour Down Under sprint event as several cyclists slammed into the safety barrier surrounded by fans.
Footage of the incident showed one rider going over the top of the barrier and into the crowd, while others began to pile up against the fencing.
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Spectators on the barrier were seen falling to the ground as a result of the impact.
While others hurried to help those involved in the collision, it was not long until medical assistance arrived.
Bystander Harry Hollaway told 9News the injured woman appeared to be hit by both a rider and the barrier.
It is understood the woman came from NSW with her husband to attend the event.
Cyclists collide with the barrier at the Tour Down Under. Nine
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas confirmed on Sunday the female spectator remained in hospital.
"We are saddened to report that a woman has suffered very serious injuries," he said.
"She is currently under care within our hospital system. Our thoughts are with her and her husband.
"To see a really awful freak accident like occur is obviously disconcerting."
Malinauskas said all athletes who sustained injuries looked to be making a successful recovery.
(L-R) Pascal Eenkhoorn, Pieter Serry and Andrea Raccagni Noviero of Team Soudal Quick-Step. Getty
Andrea Raccagni, one of the riders involved in the incident, was nursing wounds to his hands and legs after the incident.
But in a promising sign for the Italian rider, he confirmed he would be fit to return to the competition.
"I hit the wheel of the guy in front of me because he broke a bit," Raccagni told 9News.
"Some other riders hit me (as a result) and went into the barrier."
Only one rider in the collision failed to complete the race after the incident.
Raccagni said he saw the rider holding his shoulder after the incident but was not certain if that injury was the reason for his failure to finish.
Raccagni echoed the well wishes sent by the premier to the female spectator injured.
"It shouldn't happen but it can happen. I wish her all the best," he said.
