John Degenkolb, who will wear the Trek-Segafredo jersey in 2017, hopes to shine in the men's road race at the World Championship in Doha, Qatar. He gained confidence with his first victory of the season at Arctic Race of Norway.

The last German who won the rainbow jersey is Rudy Altig, 50 years ago. But with Andre Greipel, Marcel Kittel and John Degenkolb, the German selection will be one of the favourites this season. In any case, the Giant-Alpecin rider is ready to work for his leader. 

"The Arctic Race of Norway is at a good distance from the Tour and it's a very good race to prepare for Hamburg and Plouay. The World Championship is a big goal, also for Germany but what kind of role I will play in the team, it's not clear yet, but I'll be hoping to do a good race there together with the team", he explained to Cyclingnews. "We've only six riders I think for the World's. We won't go to the race with nine riders like last year for example. I don't think the results at the Arctic Race and Hamburg can make a big difference anymore because we're so far back. We're not getting more than six riders…"