Ricciardo hits historic new high at Japan GP

With another podium finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo achieved a new first in his Formula 1 career.

The Aussie finished third in Suzuka behind Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, claiming a career-best ninth podium in one season.

It is the first time Ricciardo has reached the podium in Japan, with his previous best finish a fourth in 2014.

However the Aussie's race almost ended in disaster when he narrowly avoided a big crash with Lance Stroll late in the race.

The Williams driver came careering off the track and tried to get back on ahead of Ricciardo, the Red bull gun having to take evasive action at 250km/h.

The historic high for Ricciardo saw him in a jovial mood on the post-race podium.

Hamilton won the race from pole on Sunday and took a big step towards the Formula One world title, but fell victim to the a Ricciardo prank afterwards.

As the champagne flowed, the Briton was celebrating his win when Ricciardo sensed his opportunity and pounced.

Noticing Hamilton's mobile phone was unattended, the Aussie larrikin swiped it to take a series of hilarious photos that he posted to the Brit's Instagram account.

Unsurprisingly, the hilarious phone hack quickly went viral.

with AAP