French media reports have suggested that some riders might have been attacked with pepper spray, with a number of participants washing out their eyes, while others are returning to their team cars for medical treatment.
According to The Guardian's live updates, ITV 4's commentary team had revealed that it was a French policeman who had accidentally used the pepper spray in an attempt to stop a protester, trying to throw hay-bales on to the road along the route from Carcassonne to Bagneres-de-Luchon. Farmers are reportedly protesting against a cut in state aid.
The race has since resumed, according to the radio station, run by Tour's organizers.
Gendarmes detain a protesting farmer as the pack rides behind during the 16th stage of the 105th edition of the Tour de France cycling race, between Carcassonne and Bagneres-de-Luchon, southwestern France, on July 24, 2018
© AFP 2023 / Jeff PACHOUD