Armitstead crashes out of Tour of Qatar

British starlet Lizzie Armitstead has crashed out of the ladies Tour of Qatar in today's 103-kilometre opening stage.

The 21-year-old was forced to withdraw from her first race in Cervélo Test Team colours after coming down in one of several crashes caused by strong desert winds on the route between Doha and Al Khor Corniche.

According to reports from her team, Armitstead was seen over by the race doctors but was able to return to the team hotel.

Cervelo are due to make an official announcement on Friday morning, but her injuries are thought to be no more than superficial injuries and whiplash.

In an unfortunate coincidence, her crash comes within hours of teammate and compatriot Dan Lloyd's fall at the Etoile de Bessèges.

Related linksLizzie Armitstead rider profile