Shane van Gisbergen has quickly established himself as a force in the NASCAR Cup Series, marking his second victory in Mexico City last month. Since stepping into the spotlight during the inaugural Chicago street race in July 2023, he has transformed from a relatively unknown driver to a celebrated star.
Reflecting on the past two years, Van Gisbergen expressed his amazement at the rapid changes in his life, particularly after making the challenging switch from Australian Supercars to NASCAR. After winning his first race in Chicago, he signed a developmental deal with Trackhouse Racing for the 2024 season, where he not only competed in all the Xfinity Series events but also made a mark in 12 Cup Series races.
The transition from Australian Supercars, where he was a three-time champion, to NASCAR required him to adapt to a different vehicle dynamic. Van Gisbergen noted the significant differences, particularly in the car’s weight and handling characteristics, comparing the heavier stock cars to the lighter, more agile Supercars he was accustomed to. Despite the challenges, he has embraced his journey in the NASCAR circuit, finding joy in the learning curve.
This weekend, Chicago will host what may be its last NASCAR event of the current contract. The street course, stretching 2.2 miles with 12 turns, has been a unique challenge for drivers due to its lack of runoff areas, especially at high-risk corners. Van Gisbergen appreciates this aspect of the track, recognizing the blend of excitement and danger it presents.
His impressive win in Mexico City revitalized his season, propelling him from 33rd to a competitive position in the championship standings. Looking ahead, Van Gisbergen aims to capitalize on upcoming opportunities at iconic tracks like Sonoma and Watkins Glen, and his sights are set on advancing through the NASCAR postseason.
“I still get excited by that,” he shared, emphasizing the continually fresh challenges NASCAR presents. With each race, he is not only refining his skills but also enjoying a renewed passion for racing, making every week a thrilling experience filled with new opportunities for improvement and success.