The Cowley-based Mini John Cooper Works team claimed their first podium finish since rejoining the World Rally Championship circuit when Dani Sordo finished third in the Rallye Deutschland.

The Spaniard came out on top of a thrilling fight with Ford’s Mikko Hirvonen for the minor honours in Trier.

He finished behind Sebastien Ogier, who claimed victory to end Citroën teammate Sebast-ien Loeb’s German dominance.

Loeb had won the German event on each of the eight occasions it had been held since it was added to the calendar in 2002.

Ogier was 39.8secs clear of his teammate and 1min 55.6secs ahead of Sordo’s Mini.

Sordo said: “We knew after testing that the Mini was quick on asphalt, but we didn’t think we were fast enough to target a podium finish and take the fight to the Fords.

“The car’s balance felt really good and it will be nice when we start to have a little more engine power.

“The result is very important for the team and for their motivation, so I don’t think we can rule out the possibility of another Mini on the podium before the end of the year.

“Personally, I am very glad to have finished in the top-three with another car than a Citroën.

“That way, people can’t just say that I was successful because of my car.”