James Hinchcliffe admitted that the caution period came just at the right time for him on Sunday around the streets of Toronto, but the Canadian felt he had the pace to be a frontrunner regardless.
The Schmidt Peterson Motorsports driver finished third at his home race for a second consecutive season, but felt he was closing down the leading duo of Josef Newgarden and Alexander Rossi in the closing stages, ultimately finishing 4.7020 seconds off the win.
Hinchcliffe took time to thank the fans for coming to Toronto to support him once more, and he hopes that the 2018 event at the track can see him improve his race result.
“The yellow just came at the right time, but we had the pace at the end there,” said Hinchcliffe. “We were catching Alexander and Josef in that last stint.
“The car really came alive on the blacks, so big thanks to Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, all the guys – great stops – and all the fans in Toronto. I mean the support that we feel each and every year is amazing. You guys are the best.
“You came even when the weather wasn’t looking awesome and hung out with us and we appreciate it. So thanks to all of you guys. Next year, maybe a couple of spots better.”