After a storied career in Supercars, Shane van Gisbergen moved to the United States of America with his girlfriend to expand his horizons in NASCAR. The opportunity had opened up when Trackhouse Racing offered him a full-time Xfinity seat following his victory in his Cup Series debut at the 2023 Chicago Street Race. And, many in the NASCAR fraternity have been helping Van Gisbergen feel at home.
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In a generous gesture, Dale Earnhardt Jr. had even offered to rent out one of his properties to help the New Zealand native settle. But despite such support, the transition has not been smooth.
“It’s not easy. Even now, I’m a lot older, but moving from Australia to America — being across the other side of the world from your family and friends — it’s difficult,” SVG said.
Shifting to stock car racing required a bit of unlearning and learning too.
“It’s been such a challenge and a big refresh for me. Some aspects of it have been a struggle, especially on the ovals, but that’s what guys grew up doing here. NASCAR also has a really hectic schedule, but I love it.”
After making headlines with a stunning debut victory in Chicago, Van Gisbergen competed in the Xfinity Series in 2024, finishing P12 in the standings. He also took part in select Cup Series races as well.
Beginning in 2025, he will take on a full-time role in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the #88 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing.
SVG reveals he was taking advice from NASCAR veterans
SVG secured three Xfinity Series wins in 2024, all on road courses. His best performance on an oval came at Martinsville, where he climbed from P29 to finish P12. Despite showing steady improvement, SVG has faced challenges adapting to oval racing and the nuances of the Xfinity Series car.
“The ovals are very, very, very difficult. But I feel like I’m getting better and better, finishing the races with straight cars and starting to get more and more competitive. Road courses are (my) strength, but I don’t know if ovals are a weakness,” he remarked.
To bridge the gap, SVG had reached out to NASCAR veterans Marcos Ambrose and Kevin Harvick. Their advice has bolstered his confidence ahead of his full-time entry into the Cup Series.
“All of the drivers have been pretty friendly,” said Van Gisbergen. “You can’t not be friendly because you race each other every week. The cars are very different to what I’m used to, but hopefully the Cup car will suit me better. I’ve just got to be patient and not try to force things. The results will come once I get comfortable, but I’m definitely ready to go.”
In 2024, SVG competed in 12 Cup Series races. His best result was a second-place finish at Watkins Glen. In the upcoming season, fans would expect the same levels of performance from the Kiwi through the season.
