The Racing With Autism team has just returned from what can only be described as one of the most dominant race weekends of Austin Riley’s professional career.
From the moment the team arrived at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, it became evident that Austin has transitioned seamlessly into the new Revolution race car. Just as impressive has been his rapid adjustment to driving from the opposite side of the cockpit — a significant technical change that can challenge even the most experienced drivers.
The weekend began with considerable logistical challenges. Due to work commitments, it was an exhausting journey to the circuit, arriving after an overnight drive in time for load-in. Preparations continued late into the evening as the crew worked to fully prep the car after it had remained at Road Atlanta following the previous round at Sebring. Despite minimal rest and demanding conditions, the team’s determination ensured the car was ready for competition.
Practice & Qualifying
The opening day presented extremely difficult weather conditions, including heavy storms that understandably heightened Austin’s anxiety given his accident at this circuit last season. Demonstrating maturity and smart decision-making, the team elected to skip the first practice session for safety reasons.
When conditions improved later in the day, Austin immediately demonstrated strong pace and confidence, finishing P2 Overall and P1 in Class in Practice 2 by a significant margin. He followed this with another competitive performance in Practice 3, building valuable momentum heading into Day 2.
Cold temperatures persisted the following morning, yet Austin maintained his speed and consistency, finishing P3 Overall and P1 in Class in the final practice session. Qualifying later that afternoon proved challenging due to traffic, but Austin delivered when it mattered most, securing 3rd Overall and P1 in Class, placing the team in a strong position for race day.
Race Performances
Race 1 took place in very cold conditions early Saturday morning. Austin made an exceptional start, quickly moving into 2nd Overall on the opening lap. From there, he drove a disciplined and mature race, holding off several higher-horsepower competitors to finish P2 Overall and claim another Class Victory.
In Race 2, warmer temperatures and strong winds created new challenges. With many competitors running fresh tires while the Racing With Autism team strategically conserved resources by completing the weekend on a single set, Austin faced an additional disadvantage. After losing ground at the start, he executed a decisive and impressive pass into Turn 1 before settling into a consistent rhythm. He crossed the line P4 Overall and P1 in Class by over 18 seconds.
During this race, Austin also achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new Revolution 427 class track record with a lap time of 1:24.42 — an outstanding accomplishment made even more impressive as it was set on worn tires.
Final Race
The final race of the weekend brought the most difficult conditions yet, with intermittent rain creating uncertainty around tire strategy. A bold late call by the team to run slick tires on a damp circuit proved to be the correct decision.
Austin once again made a strong start, immediately moving into 2nd Overall, before later taking the overall race leadwith a confident pass into Turn 1. Lap traffic in the closing stages allowed a higher-horsepower competitor to regain position on the back straight, but Austin maintained strong pace to finish P2 Overall and P1 in Class, completing another outstanding drive.
Fan Engagement
Another major highlight of the Road Atlanta weekend was the tremendous level of fan engagement surrounding the Racing With Autism program. Throughout the event, Austin and the team were visited by an incredible number of supporters from across the motorsport community. Track marshals, series officials, security personnel, medical staff, fellow competitors, and many fans — both long-time followers and new supporters — stopped by the paddock to meet Austin, share their stories, and express their encouragement.
These meaningful interactions continue to demonstrate the powerful reach and positive impact of the Racing With Autism mission. The program’s presence at high-profile race events not only delivers strong on-track results but also creates authentic personal connections that enhance sponsor visibility and strengthen brand association in a highly positive and memorable environment.
Championship Momentum
With the results from Road Atlanta, Austin has now achieved six class victories in six starts to begin the 2026 Revolution Cup North America season. The team leaves the event with the lead in the Class Championship standings, carrying significant momentum into the next round at Road America in May.
This exceptional weekend further confirms Austin’s growing confidence and comfort in the new car, as well as the continued strength and professionalism of the Racing With Autism program. Performances like these not only build championship potential but also deliver valuable exposure and engagement opportunities for our valued partners.
