Malaysia 2012: When second felt like a win for Checo!

Sergio Perez claimed his first podium in Malaysia in 2012, when he finished second for Sauber behind race winner Fernando Alonso.

A typical Sepang downpour wrecked havoc on proceedings after just a handful of laps, flooding parts of the track and forcing race control to summon the Safety Car, and eventually even red flag the event.

The race was eventually restarted on lap 10 and drivers were unleashed after four exploratory laps.

Tyre choice and pit stop timing put Perez in contention for the lead, along with Alonso. Ultimately however, Sauber reminded the Mexican of the value of a runner-up spot and asked Perez not to force the issue.

A win may have been possible for Checo that day, but second in the treacherous conditions was obviously the next best thing.