After the Midland Group bought Jordan Grand Prix, Monteiro was announced as a full-time race driver alongside Indian Narain Karthikeyan. In the 2005 United States Grand Prix he achieved his first podium finish in farcical circumstances when all but 3 teams pulled out due to arguments over tyre safety (the Michelin-equipped teams pulled out of the race, not taking their place on the grid. The Bridgestone teams were the only ones to run). Monteiro finished 3rd out of just 6 drivers.

At the podium ceremony, at which none of the scheduled presenters were present, Ferrari drivers Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello quietly accepted their awards, and quickly exited. However, Monteiro stayed behind to celebrate his first podium finish alone amid the booing fans, a decision which although initially controversial, was latterly met with some sympathy from the F1 fraternity.

As of the 2005 United States Grand Prix, Tiago is now the most successful Portuguese driver ever in