Kubica's lonely race to the runner-up position nevertheless marked the finest result of the Pole's fledgling career in the top flight – and only his second rostrum appearance following the third place he achieved at Monza in 2006 – whilst Kovalainen's first podium for
McLaren was somewhat overshadowed by the gaping 38.4 seconds that separated the young Finn from his compatriot at the chequered flag.
Trulli held off Hamilton for a superb fourth place, with Heidfeld coming home sixth ahead of the duelling Webber and Alonso, the former opening
Red Bull's points-scoring account for the year with seventh spot.
Behind them, the final running order was completed by Coulthard, Button, Nelsinho Piquet (Renault),
Giancarlo Fisichella – who enjoyed a strong race for
Force India –
Rubens Barrichello (Honda), Rosberg,
Super Aguri duo
Anthony Davidson and Sato and
Williams'
Kazuki Nakajima.
All eyes were on the race-winner, though, who only seven days after
Ferrari had appeared almost amateurish in Melbourne, made the Italian outfit's competitors in Malaysia look somewhat second-rate.
