Marco Andretti has been rewarded for his podium winning efforts in the previous A1GP round with a chance to star again for Team United States.

After making his long awaited debut for the team, which is being overseen by Andretti Green Racing for the 2008/09 season in China, Andretti went on to claim a third place finish last time out at Sepang.

As such, the 20-year-old has been retained as the team's nominated driver for the latest round at Taupo, which destines to be a new experience for him.

“I'm looking forward to the race in New Zealand”, he said. “I've never been over there, but I've heard a lot of good things about it from [New Zealand IndyCar racer] Scott Dixon and I am looking forward to getting there. I know very little about the circuit, but I'm sure we'll get up to speed pretty quick.

“It's just great to be able to race this time of year. I love to drive and a lot of people aren't getting that chance right now.”