Arnaud De Lie out of competition with rib, collarbone, sternum fractures and pneumothorax

Arnaud De Lie has been one of the breakthrough riders last year and this season took another step in competing with the big boys. He may be facing the first big recovery obstacle in his pro career as he was left with numerous injuries after yesterday's mass crash at the 4 Jours de Dunkerque.

De Lie managed to finish the stage despite his injuries, but after being examinated at a hospital they turned out to be more severe than initially thought. The Lotto Dstny rider suffered a pneumothorax, alongside a fractured collarbone, rib and one in the sternum as well.

After initially being confirmed to have a fractured collarbone, the team issued a statement: "Further examinations have revealed a pneumothorax, a fractured rib and a fracture in the upper part of the sternum. Arnaud will stay the night in the hospital, where he will be closely monitored. Surgery will likely take place in Belgium tomorrow."

The Belgian was in the midst of a racing block where he ambition to obtain some more victories after a packed spring where he battled against the best in the cobbled classics, but will now be forced to take undetermined time off the bike.