Team Sky wheel sponsor PRO has explained why Gianni Moscon’s front wheel collapsed catastrophically on stage one of Tirreno-Adriatico.

After what it described as a thorough investigation, the Shimano subsidiary said that the wheel collapse was due to Team Sky mechanics fitting a tyre which was too narrow for the wheel.

“PRO conducted a thorough investigation to replicate the circumstances, to examine its strict safety standards and to ensure that the safety of riders remains the highest priority,” the company said in a statement.

>>> Gianni Moscon’s front wheel collapses in bizarre crash during Tirreno TTT (video)

“The investigation concluded that the 3-spoke wheel is completely safe to continue racing. The incident occurred because the rider hit a pot hole at high speed on a tyre that did not meet the minimum tyre width specification as advised by PRO.

“PRO advises all customers and riders using its 3-spoke time trial wheel to choose a minimum recommended tyre width of 24mm (622-24), to inspect the wheel for damage following impact and to stop riding in the event of a puncture.”

The incident took place in the opening stage of Tirreno-Adriatico, with Moscon crashing hard midway through the team time trial.