Roglič was returning to the International Cycling Union (UCI) WorldTour circuit for the first time since Paris-Nice, where he suffered a dislocated shoulder on a final day crash which cost him the overall victory.

The Jumbo-Visma rider produced a strong ride during the 13.9 kilometre individual time trial in Bilbao.

Roglič completed the distance in a time of 17min 17sec to top the standings.

United States’ Brandon McNulty, who was forced out of Paris-Nice after a crash, went closest to overhauling Roglič.

The UAE Team Emirates’ rider finished two seconds off the pace, after completing the course which featured a category three climb and inclines towards the finish.

Roglič’s team-mate Jonas Vingegaard of Denmark and Norway’s Tobias Foss finished 18 and 24 seconds behind the stage winner.

Tadej Pogačar, who overhauled Roglič in the final time trial at the 2020 Tour de France to win the Grand Tour, had initially threatened to achieve a similar feat.

The Slovenian, who rides for UAE Team Emirates, began strongly in the time trial but faded in the latter stages.

Pogačar finished fifth on the stage, ending 28 seconds off Roglič’s time.

Britain’s Adam Yates also ended with the same time as Pogačar and will hope to be a threat in the upcoming days.

The six stage race will continue tomorrow with a 154.8km route from Zalla to Sestao.

The Tour is scheduled to finish on April 10 with a 111.9km mountain stage, ending in Arrate in Eibar.