2021 NRX: Florida Preview
Travis Pastrana and Scott Speed Lead Nitro RX Championship Entering Final Round
Subaru Motorsports USA took a third consecutive Nitro Rallycross event win with a 1-2-3 podium sweep at Glen Helen Raceway! Travis Pastrana in the #199 WRX STI earned his second straight victory, with teammate and fellow championship contender Scott Speed taking second in the final. Andreas Bakkerud, returning for his third outing of the five-round NRX season, picked up his best finish of the year to round out the podium in third. Pastrana and Speed now own the top two positions in the inaugural NRX driver’s championship and three out of the four race wins so far.
The final round of the five-event 2021 Nitro RX season will be held at Florida International Rally & Motorsports Park (The FIRM) near Jacksonville, Florida, December 4-5. With up to 54 points available for the top-finishing driver, the three-way championship fight between Pastrana, Speed and Timmy Hansen is still far from over. Pastrana leads the way with 182 points, while Speed sits second at 175 with Hansen close on his heels with 165. Although a handful of championship points are available in the qualifying battles, Sunday’s final race—which will award 50 points for first place—is almost guaranteed to be the title decider!
Adding to the final-round drama is the nature of the circuit. Although the last three rounds of the NRX season have been held at tracks featuring virtually no paved surfaces, the FIRM’s layout will include tarmac sections that may favor cars—or driving styles—that are better adapted to higher grip. With new challenges and a super-tight championship race, expect a thrilling finish to the inaugural Nitro RX season!
Quotes from the drivers:
Travis Pastrana:
“Absolutely over the moon that our season has gone so well. Not just for me, but for Scott and everyone at Subaru! We didn’t start off so well but we are gaining momentum and I’m coming into the final round with the points lead. Last weekend at Glen Helen was a must win scenario for me because that track suited my style and our car. The final round is mostly pavement which is advantage Scott and much tighter which is advantage Hansen. Without a doubt, this will be the toughest driving challenge of my career but I couldn’t have a better team or be in a better place to pull this off.”
Scott Speed:
“What a year! I cannot believe it’s almost over. Nitro RX has upped the level of Rallycross globally and I’m so happy that we are a part of that. Travis and I are both in solid contention for the championship which is a testament to how hard everyone at Subaru has worked to make this happen. Honored to be a part of such an incredible team and looking forward to the challenges of our final round!”
