
Local hero —
Sauber driver Kamui Kobayashi (white shirt) is the focus of constant media and public scrutiny as the 26-year-old walks in the paddock of the Suzuka circuit on Saturday ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.

Wave of support —
Kobayashi waves to an adoring crowd as he prepares to drive in his maiden Japanese Grand Prix.

Leading the charge —
Kobayashi leads a group during Sunday's Grand Prix at the famous Suzuka circuit.

Team effort —
Kobayashi celebrates his historic podium placing with members of the Sauber team.

Genuine delight —
Race winner Sebastian Vettel congratulates third-placed Kobayashi on his maiden podium finish. Kobayashi made his Grand Prix debut in 2009.

Worth the wait —
Kobayashi celebrates on the podium in front of ecstatic home support, who chant 'Kamui' in unison from the stands.

Land of the Rising Son —
Kobayashi celebrates with teammates as Sauber close the gap on fifth-placed Mercedes in the constructors' championship.