It was about twelve kilometers of the sixth stage of the cycling classic Giro d'Italia when the accident occurred.

The Belgian Pieter Serry was at the back of a cluster when he was suddenly hit from behind by a car that belonged to the stable BikeExchange.

Someone in the passenger seat of the car gave or received something from the car next door and then the driver seems to have lost focus and drove on Serry.

The cyclist remained on the ground for a while before he could then get up and finally complete the stage.

"I am impressed by all your supportive messages.

I feel okay and was able to complete today's stage.

Thanks to BikeExchange for the apology.

I am happy to be able to continue this Giro d'Italia ", writes Serry on Instagram.

The driver of the stable car has been suspended from this year's Giro d'Italia and the stable's sports director has been fined 2,000 Swiss francs (just over 18,000 kronor).