Tasmania police said Webber was airlifted to hospital where he is being treated for a broken leg and other injuries. His condition is believed to be serious but not life-threatening.

The accident happened on a remote road south east of the capital city Hobart at about 12.40pm local time, police said.

Webber was taking part in the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge, a 250-kilometre endurance event consisting of mountain bike riding, kayaking and trekking.

Sergeant Jon Ford, of Tasmania Police, said: “At 12.40pm we received reports of a collision between a bicycle and a motor vehicle on the Fortescue Bay Road on the Tasman Peninsula.

“The collision was initially attended by paramedics attached to the event.

“He was airlifted from the scene by helicopter and taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital where he is now being treated for serious but not life-threatening injuries.

“He suffered a broken leg and other injuries and is reported to be in a stable condition.”

A Red Bull Racing statement said: “Mark will remain in Tasmania for a few days before continuing his recovery in the UK.

“While it looks like he’s out of the winter testing programme, we fully expect Mark to make the starting grid in Melbourne next March.

“Mark has said he’s relieved to know the driver of the motor vehicle was uninjured and expressed his thanks to the many well wishes from family, friends and supporters.

“Everyone at Red Bull Racing would like to add their best wishes to Mark and hope for his speedy recovery.”

Webber finished 11th in the Formula One drivers’ world championship standings this year.

Telegraph