Podium a huge surprise for Hamilton

The McLaren driver started from 17th position but charged through the field to finish in third behind Mark Webber and Robert Kubica.

Hamilton said it had been a very difficult day, and conceded he never expected to finish so high up.

"Today has been an extremely tough day, a tough weekend," said Hamilton, who handed his world title to Jenson Button. "Today is a huge surprise to me, I had no idea that we would be able to get into points.

"The team did a great job on strategy but I was a on knife edge all the way. I feel great, the car felt great. There are still some improvements we need to make, but to fight up to third from 18th is a great job from team.

"I am thankful to them for the good job they did. I had an incredible battle with Rubens and congratulations to Jenson, a great job from him and a great season."

The McLaren driver said the result would please his bosses, who had pushed him to do his best to try and beat Ferrari in the standings.

"I have the bosses breathing down my neck to get the job done. Today will make them happy. We really needed it as both of us were at back, so this will be good. I am sure lads in team and happy and bosses are too."

McLaren is now one point ahead of Ferrari with one race to go.