Loch on top form ahead of World Championships

The four-time world champion won his first title on the Oberhof track back in 2008 and was on top form again on Saturday as he set a new track record of 43.029 seconds on his first run.

And he held onto that lead with another fastest run on the second to post an overall winning time of 1:26.068.

Second went to Andi Langenhan, 0.385 seconds behind, with Ralf Palik third to complete an all-German podium.

The 2016 World Championships take place in Koenigsee in 14 days time and 26-year-old Loch – who recorded his 28th victory in the men’s singles with his success in Oberhof – will be one of the favourites.

He also takes over the lead in the overall World Cup standings for the first time this season on 590 points with Wolfgang Kindl of Austria dropping back to second with 566 points after finishing fifth in Oberhof.

"This was a perfect day with a track record and leadership in the overall World Cup standings," he said.

"I'm really happy at winning six races in succession. Lots of people are saying I'm top favourite for the World Championships, and not only since this victory."