Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross looks to extend lead

Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross returns to competition stateside this weekend in Austin, Texas, at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) for the second round of the Americas Rallycross Championship (ARX). Points frontrunner Tanner Foust looks to increase his lead after a first place finish at Silverstone, England in May. Scott Speed, in close second, is no stranger to rallycross victory at COTA and will be in the chase to top the podium as well. 

The Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross team enjoyed a near-perfect season opener at the inaugural ARX race at Silverstone. Foust, nearly untouchable in his Rockstar Energy Drink Beetle Rallycross, scored top three finishes in each of the weekend's four qualifying rounds.

The three-time rallycross champion took an easy victory in his semi-final race, setting up a pole starting position for the final. A quick launch propelled Foust to an early lead, which he protected throughout the race, bringing him the first checkered flag of the season.

"It was an amazing experience to take home the first win of the season and series," said Foust. "The team worked extremely hard to get the Rockstar Beetle ready for the new series and it paid off. Round two brings new challenges and fresh, but familiar competitors to the start line. Still, I'm confident VW and Andretti will put together the winning setup."

Oberto Circle K Beetle Rallycross driver, Scott Speed, had a more challenging path to the podium in England, receiving a minor setback in the second qualifying round after contact with another competitor's vehicle.

Otherwise, Speed finished second or higher, winning his semi-final heat and starting next to Foust on the front row of the final.

"Silverstone was a challenging track with tough competition, but it was great to see the Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross team on top of the podium," said Speed.

"COTA is quite a technical course, and on top of that we'll be racing at night. It should be great to watch!"

The new permanent rallycross track at COTA is inset to turns 12 through 16. Just over a half-mile in length, the course is comprised of 40 percent dirt and 60 percent asphalt surfaces.