The 22-year-old was part of a larger group that broke away in the early phase of the 207 km stage from Lliria to Cuenca. He mounted the decisive attack 11 kilometres before the finish line.

"It's incredible. It's been a long time since my last big victory. I always work hard, I always give my best. It's extraordinary to win," Mohorič said after the race, expressing gratitude to his team.

This is the second stage win for a Slovenian cyclist at La Vuelta, one of the top three challenges in road cycling. Borut Božič secured the first in 2009.

The win moreover gives Slovenia stage victories at all of the big three races this year: Jan Polanc won a stage in Italy and Primož Roglič secured Slovenia's first ever stage victory in France.