Cyclist Wouter Weylandt dies after Giro d'Italia crash

The Leopard-Trek rider fell at high speed during a descent about 20km (12.4 miles) from the finish of the stage from Reggio Emilia to Rapallo.

The 26-year-old lay motionless and bloodied as paramedics tried to revive him using CPR and cardiac massage.

"Despite immediate treatment there was nothing we could do," doctor Giovanni Tredici told Italian television.

"He died from a fracture to the front of his skull. We arrived at the scene 30 seconds after the crash. We tried for 40 minutes to resuscitate him."

Leopard Trek spokesman Tim Vanderjeugd said: "I can confirm the death of Wouter Weylandt.

"He was taken to hospital but had already died at the scene."

An autopsy will be carried out to determine the cause of death.

Isle of Man cyclist Mark Cavendish said on Twitter: "Things like this shouldn't happen. Absolutely sick to the stomach. My thoughts are with his family. RIP Wouter Weylandt."

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong said on Twitter: "I'm shocked and saddened. May he rest in peace."

Reigning Tour de France champion Alberto Contador said: "It's a terrible story and a dark day for the cycling family.

"I want to give all my condolences to the family of Wouter and all his friends and send a message of encouragement and support to the Leopard team and the whole cycling family;" Kazinform cites BBC News.

See www.bbc.co.uk for full version