Andretti Global Indy NXT driver Louis Foster rebounded from adversity to make up 16 positions from 21st to fifth at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama.
Foster was hampered by an electrical issue in both practice sessions and again in qualifying the car wasn’t drivable, as Foster had to watch his competitors qualify and he couldn’t even start a lap.
In the race, Foster scythed through the field at the tricky Barber track. He ended the race only five seconds behind the eventual winner in a breathtaking race where he made an overtake almost every lap.
He had already jumped from 21st to 12th inside the opening four laps, before a caution bunched up the field and he had to go on the attack again, taking fifth three laps before the end.
“P21 to P5 at the hardest track to overtake, it’s a fantastic recovery,” says Foster, who is backed by Copart, a global leader in online auto auctions.
“Obviously the weekend was compromised as I only did a few laps in both practice sessions and I didn’t take part in qualifying at all. I have to focus on what I can control and the electrical issue with the car wasn’t something I had any control over. The team worked tirelessly to find the issue and fix the problem which they did in time for the race, for which I am very thankful.
“When we got to the race, I knew we could make up positions and I knew the Andretti Global team would give me a great #26 car.
“It was nice to go out and be on full attack from the first lap, and I have to thank everyone who supports me. That result was for them and the support they give me regardless of what's happening."
Despite two tricky weekends, Foster is still third in the championship after the opening two races.
He will race again on May 10/11, in a crucial double-header at the Indianapolis road course where Foster finished second last year.
“We’ve tested a lot and have a good read on the Indy road course,” added Foster.
“We came so close to winning there last year that obviously we want to go one better and get our first win of the season.
“The competition is tight this year and you have to get everything right if you want to be on the podium and in contention for race wins.
“Given we’ve faced some adversity at the start of 2024, we’re in a decent position and want to push on here for a strong May and June, which is the main part of the season.”