Degenkolb holds off Froome to claim Criterium Saitama

Degenkolb edged local hero Fumiyuki Beppu and Froome and on the final stretch at the end of the 60km race.

Another Japanese rider, Yukio Arashiro, sparked hopes of a dramatic win after his break on the penultimate lap, but he was overtaken soon after as a six-man group took charge of proceedings.

“It was a very great race, with so many spectators," said Degenkolb.

"They are super emotional, especially in the final the crowds were so loud and you can almost compare it to the Champs Elysees from the atmosphere and the noise on the said of the road.

"Now the season is really finished for me and now the preparation for the new season starts.”