Honda World Superbike Team rider Nicky Hayden is having a good rookie year, with a Race win in Sepang and podiums to boot. But adding to his tally at home was something special for the American – although always preferring to win – and the Kentucky Kid dedicated his podium to his team and his fans after Race 1 at Laguna Seca.

“It feels really good to be on the podium,” smiled Hayden, two-time GP winner at the California venue. “I’m not ecstatic with my race – I had hoped to be faster than that - but you know what? We got on the podium. So thanks to my team and all my supporters – this is for them of course.

“I know they would prefer a win and I would prefer a win but being on the podium at a track I love with fans I love means we can be happy.”

Hayden had warned against miracles despite his excellent record at the US track, and withstood pressure from Alex Lowes, Lorenzo Savadori and finally teammate Michael van der Mark to take the final podium spot.

“I saw guys making mistakes and there were lots of yellow flags – and the wind was a lot worse than we’ve had all weekend,” added Hayden. “I thought to just try and bang out these laps and not make any mistakes. Towards the end I increased my pace and that helped keep on the podium, but I certainly hope to be able to put up a better fight tomorrow.”

Race 2 begins at the same time of 14:30 local time (GMT-7), as Nicky stares down the Corkscrew once again.