The Norwegian had already enjoyed two previous successes at the event, which was added to the International Cycling Union (UCI) World Tour calendar this year.

He was trying to earn a third straight triumph to add to wins in 2014 and last year, with the 2015 event cancelled due to a suspected terror plot.

While the finish suited the sprinters, an eight-man breakaway attempted to spring a surprise with an early escape during uphill sections of the route in Germany.

Weather conditions added to the intrigue, with world champion Peter Sagan of Slovakia, Germany's Andre Greipel and Marcel Kittel all pulling out during the race as the rain poured.

The initial breakaway would be foiled in the final 50 kilometre of the 215km one-day race, with several counter-attacks then proving unsuccessful.

It set up perfectly for Kristoff to earn another sprint victory at the race and the Norwegian's Katusha team delivered him ideally in the finishing straight.

Kristoff would secure the victory by crossing the line in a winning time of 5hours, 29min and 33sec.

Katusha's dominant performance was reflected by Germany's Rick Zabel ending as the runner-up behind his team-mate.

Germany's John Degenkolb would complete the top three, with the Trek–Segafredo rider ending on the same time as the winner.

Attention will now turn to the first Grand Tour of the season, as the Giro d'Italia begins on Friday (May 5).