John Degenkolb was the fastest in the bunch sprint in Nuremberg to win his second stage in the Bayern Rundfahrt.

The demanding local circuits around the city of Nuremberg ended in a bunch sprint, as the team of race leader Alex Dowsett (Moviestar Team) controlled the bunch all day.

With an ideal sprint preparation by the team, Degenkolb took his second win of the week. Next to his two stage victories, Degenkolb is the winner of the blue sprinters jersey as well.

Dowsett secures his overall win at the German stage race.

After the race, Degenkolb said: “It was a perfect day, everything went according to plan and I am very happy with this victory. The finale was hectic but the team did well. We stayed together and they guys laid down another good lead-out for me. From 200 meters I started the sprint and won.

“After my small mistake in the sprint of stage 3, by choosing the wrong side in the corner, this is a nice way to set things straight. It is never easy to win a second stage since everyone looks at us and it’s difficult with the pressure that is involved.

“It was a special victory for me personally, this is close to where I grew up.”

Coach Christian Guiberteau added: “To finish the Bayern Rundfahrt like this is really great. All day the race leader’s team controlled the breakaway and we could save energy in the bunch. While heading to the local circuits, together with other the sprinters’ teams, we took over and cooperated on controlling the bunch to avoid late attacks in the finale.

“The local circuits included a small hill which was difficult for a lot of riders since it is the fifth day of racing here in Bayern. After another great job by the team with a very good lead-out. John did a fantastic job to win the stage.”