Williams’ Lance Stroll was left astonished as he claimed his maiden Formula 1 podium finish during a crazy Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Stroll maintained his grid position of eighth at the start but worked his way forwards as rivals encountered drama, holding fourth place when the race was suspended.
Stroll was passed by Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo but profited when Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel were both delayed, the Briton due to a loose headrest and Vettel because of a penalty.
Stroll was reeled in by the recovering Valtteri Bottas during the closing laps and the Finn surged clear on the run to the line, but third place marked the Canadian’s first rostrum in only his eighth race.
“I’m just lost for words,” said Stroll. “It was such a hectic race and so much happened, but the team kept me cool on the radio, the pace was good, we took it to the end and stayed out of trouble.
“I can’t quite believe what’s just happened. We just lost out to Valtteri at the end there in one of the closest finishes of all time going side-by-side across the finish line.
“Coming into this weekend I never thought I would be standing on the podium. It’s an amazing feeling and, for me, a dream come true.
“However, what happened today was a team effort and I can’t thank everyone enough for making this happen.
“I am just so sorry that I could not celebrate with Felipe [Massa], as that would have been the icing on the cake. I am sure without his problems he would have been up there with me.”
Massa, who ran with Stroll at the restart, retired due to suspension issues.
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