Fillon Maillet took control early in the 10 kilometres race and maintained his composure before powering round the last loop, crossing the line in a time of 23min 23.7sec.

Germany's Benedikt Doll was 7.2 seconds adrift in second place, while Anton Smolski of Belarus came through to claim third place.

The win for Fillon Maillet sees him strengthen his grip on the overall title and open up a big advantage over his rivals in the race for the Crystal Globe.

The Frenchman, third on the overall standings in the last three seasons, now has 521 points.

He is 72 clear of nearest challenger and compatriot Emilien Jacquelin, who endured a miserable outing today as he languished down in 53rd.

"My first sprint win with clean shooting," Fillon Maillet said. 

"It felt good to shoot clean today. 

"I am very happy with this race; it was a great race. 

"Perfect for the pursuit. I love this place because it was where I had my first podium eight years ago.

"In the past, I thought that if you wear the bib it is more pressure. 

"Not today. I was happy to race with it.

"It was like Superman; gave me some big power."

The World Cup event at the German venue is set to continue tomorrow with the women's relay.