Slovenian Roglič, who rides for Jumbo-Visma, maintained his 39-second lead over Richard Carapaz of Ecuador going into the final three stages of the race.

Philipsen claimed victory at the end of the 230.8-kilometre stage from Mos after surging clear of Germans Pascal Ackermann and Jannik Steimle.

The UAE Team Emirates rider finished the stage in 6 hours 22min 36sec to record a momentous win, his maiden Grand Tour stage triumph.

Riders were forced to tackle tough conditions as well as steep climbs throughout the mountainous stage.

"That's amazing," said Philipsen.

"I can't describe how happy I am with this victory. 

"That means a lot for me. 

"I've been waiting for the right moment since the start of La Vuelta and today it came.

"They can't take this victory away from me, so I'll enjoy this moment, try to finish my first Grand Tour now and I'm super proud of this."

Roglič finished safely in the pack to ensure he keeps his lead in the dying stages of the race, which concludes on Sunday (November 8).

This year's race was shortened from 21 to 18 stages because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the professional cycling calendar.

Tomorrow's stage will see the riders tackle a hilly 162km route from Salamanca to Ciudad Rodrigo.