Kobayashi thanks 'amazing' home fans for finishing third

The Japanese Sauber driver gave a big, if bashful smile and a wave from the podium at Suzuka, as tens of thousands of spectators cheered, "Kamui, Kamui" in honour of his third-place position.

Kamui Kobayashi on the Japan GP podium yesterday. Pic/Getty Images

"I think finally finishing in points is fantastic, especially in front of my home grand prix crowd. This is my first podium and it's amazing. I am happy for the fans and so many people supporting me," Kobayashi said.

"When you look around circuit, it is amazing. So thank you to the fans and we need to keep going for the future."u00a0