MILAN, Italy — Two-time world champion Paolo Bettini hit his head during an accident at the Six Days of Milan indoor cycling event Tuesday and was taken to a hospital.

The accident, which occurred in the final race of Bettini's career, happened when Ukrainian rider Yaroslav Popovych fell in front of Bettini. The Italian hit him and slammed his head into a protective barrier, breaking his helmet, the Gazzetta dello Sport reported on its Web site.

A collar was attached to immobilize the neck of Bettini, who remained conscious and could talk, the ANSA news agency reported.

Doctors at the Sacco hospital did not immediately provide details on Bettini's injury.

The 34-year-old Bettini won the world championship road race in 2006 and 2007. He also won the road race at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Bettini announced his retirement in September, saying his Quick Step team wound not renew his contract.