Rodríguez, aged 21, finished the tough 163.76 kilometres stage from Ingeteam Parke Zamudio to Mallabia in 4hrs 7min 9sec.

Daniel Martinez Poveda of Ineos Grenadiers placed second 7 seconds later while Remco Evenepoel of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team came in third two seconds after Poveda.

Belgium’s Evenepoel moved into the overall lead today after an impressive climb where he overtook overnight leader Primož Roglič of team Jumbo-Visma.

Evenepoel now carries a lead of two seconds over Colombian Ineos Grenadiers rider Daniel Martínez into the final stage.

Martinez won the fourth stage yesterday with a time of 4hrs 15min 23sec.

After leading since the opening time trial, Roglič appeared to struggle today and dropped to eighth.

Meanwhile, Australian Team Bike Exchange rider Lucas Hamilton had a near-miss when he misjudged a corner.

He hit the road barrier at speed and went over, only narrowly avoiding falling into the ravine on the other side.

The sixth and final stage of the Tour of the Basque Country will take place tomorrow, featuring a 135.7 kilometres long route from Eibar to Arrate.