Guy Smith rebounded from a late puncture to secure fourth place in the LMP2 class during the second round of the American Le Mans Series at St Petersburg.

The Briton, partnered by Chris Dyson in the Dyson Racing Porsche RS Spyder, took the flag in fifth place overall despite the puncture with less than half an hour remaining – although the result itself could have been better as a result.

Dyson started the race from sixth place on the LMP2 grid with the pair climbing up into second place before the late puncture cost Smith valuable time.

“Our Porsche was very good throughout the race,” he said. “I was very happy with our pace. This time last year in our first season with the Spyder, we'd had rough races in Sebring and St. Pete's. This year we're running for the championship and all of these points add up.

“With less than 30mins remaining I was 2.5secs behind the class leader in second place but just as the race re-started following a full course caution after an accident, I picked up a puncture which meant I had to pit.

“I was able to rejoin the race on the lead lap and was catching the leaders at the chequered flag. I'm sure I'd have finished second but for the puncture. It's nice to prove that our Sebring performance, when we finished third in class, was not a one off and setting the race's third fastest lap underlines that. We are in contention for honours in every race.”

Smith dedicated his result to Richard Lloyd, who died in the recent Kent plane crash. Smith was one of the drivers that won the Le Mans 24 Hours with Lloyd and Bentley in 2003.

“Richard was a great friend and was massively influential on my career,” he said. “Richard believed in me and was a big supporter. He was instrumental in pushing my name forward to Bentley, and he was a huge part of that programme. Without his support and encouragement it would never have happened and I owe a debt to his support.”