The Movistar rider was catapulted over his handlebars in the 36.7 kilometres time trial after clipping a guardrail, and after a considerable delay was only able to finish the course in a gingerly fashion.

Contador was able to capitalise on Quintana's misfortune, riding an impressive time of 47min 41sec, and now holds the red jersey heading into stage 11.

"It's a shame about Quintana," said Contador.

"You had to be very careful throughout the entire stage.

"My body is feeling better by the day.

"I hope it holds out until the end of the race."

Colombia's Nairo Quintana lost the red jersey after suffering a heavy crash ©Twitter

Germany's Tony Martin won the stage, recording his seventh time trial victory this season, in a scorching time of 47:02.

British rider Chris Froome finished in a disappointing 10th place, more than 90 seconds behind Martin.

The tricky time trial from Real Monsaterio de Santa Maria de Veruela to Borja, which followed yesterday's rest day, came in for some scathing criticism from certain riders.

"It's not just the up and down, the asphalt has nothing to do with a time trial, in my opinion," said former world time trial champion Fabian Cancellara.

"It will be even harder for the GC [general classification] guys.

"I hope they find better roads next time.

"I did what I could, that was my goal today.

"My only doubt was my safety for myself, and I could not really find the rhythm."

Contador's success represents a remarkable reversal of fortunes following his withdrawal from this year's Tour de France after suffering a fractured tibia.

But he has benefited here from a crash to an opponent.

The red jersey is now his to lose.

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