Meeke takes first WRC podium spot with third place in Monte Carlo

Northern Ireland's Kris Meeke became the first Briton to claim a top-three spot at a World Rally Championship event in 11 years when he finished third in Monte Carlo on Saturday.

The last man to achieve the feat was the late Colin McRae in 2003.

Third overnight, Meeke, from Dungannon, produced composed driving in Saturday's snow-affected stages to extend his lead over Citroen team-mate Mads Ostberg.

World champion Sebastien Ogier of France took victory.

Ogier finished one minute and 18 seconds ahead of his fellow Frenchman Bryan Bouffier, who was also claiming his first podium spot in a WRC round.

Bouffier finished 35.4 seconds ahead of Meeke, 34, who in turn was one minute and 59 seconds ahead of Ostberg.

After crashing out late in his two World Rally Championship appearances for Citroen last year, Meeke took care over the closing stages as he held on to his podium position.

"This rally's been so crazy. I've never seen anything like it,'' said Meeke after he battled through the snow.

"I'm delighted to be here on my first event with the Citroen factory team. Thanks to [team principal] Yves Matton for his faith in me."

Meeke was handed the Citroen spot after competing for the team as a guest driver twice last season.