Shane Van Gisbergen Impact: The 2023 NASCAR season proved to be a pivotal chapter in the sport’s history, notably marked by its inaugural street course race in Downtown Chicago. Amidst the challenges posed by heavy rains and dimming light, the event witnessed a resounding victory by Shane Van Gisbergen, etching his name in NASCAR history.
Van Gisbergen, a three-time Supercar champion from New Zealand, defied all expectations by clinching his maiden NASCAR Cup Series win in his debut appearance. His stellar performance not only exceeded anticipations but also drew international attention to Chicago, amplifying the event’s global resonance and beckoning other teams to consider international talent.
Brodie Kostecki, Van Gisbergen’s Supercar rival, was recruited by Richard Childress to combat the Kiwi’s soaring momentum at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Post the culmination of the 2023 Cup Series, Childress, in a strategic move, is voyaging to Australia, aiming to enlist the 25-year-old talent for NASCAR’s 2024 season to counter Trackhouse Racing’s strategies.
As Ryan Blaney secured the 2023 Cup Series championship, focus now shifts to the Australian Supercars’ climax, where points leader Kostecki gears up to face defending champion Van Gisbergen in their season finale. Kostecki eyes a decisive victory before Van Gisbergen embarks on his U.S. pursuit. Meanwhile, Childress’s attention is on Adelaide’s grand finale, seeking to secure Kostecki for several Cup Series races, including an oval track, for the upcoming season.
Childress expressed, “I’m heading over to possibly engage with past sponsors and secure sponsorship for him. I’m looking to field him in at least four, maybe five races. We have some road courses lined up, but our focus is to get him on an oval over here.”
Kostecki, aiming for his maiden Supercars title, has dominated the season with a 131-point lead over SVG, boasting six wins and eight pole positions.
Van Gisbergen’s debut triumph left an electrifying impression, showcasing his prowess by outclassing NASCAR regulars on the challenging Chicago street circuit. His stellar performance resonated with NASCAR enthusiasts, sparking an interest in the Supercars champ. Little did fans know that this race would spur a new trend, prompting team owners to explore international talents and set a competitive benchmark.
While 23XI Racing brought in Kamui Kobayashi from endurance racing, Childress’s focus on Brodie Kostecki, despite a 22nd-place finish owing to team vulnerability, remains resolute.
Childress affirmed, “Van Gisbergen’s expertise on road courses and street races is evident, but we’re eager to see his prowess on ovals. Our strategy will revolve around his Supercars schedule and the races we can align him with.”
ALSO READ: Shane van Gisbergen Journey: From Supercars to NASCAR Transition
Our Reader’s Queries
Why is Shane van Gisbergen so good?
His love for driving fast and racing is evident in his passionate approach. He possesses a unique ability to analyze the situation and make counter moves while driving. What sets him apart is his capacity to think on his feet even at high speeds. This is what makes him an exceptional driver in my opinion.
Why did Shane van Gisbergen quit?
The team recently made a public announcement stating that the 23-year-old is leaving for personal reasons. They emphasized that the decision was not caused by the team’s impending takeover by Erebus.
Who was Shane van Gisbergen driving for in NASCAR?
Van Gisbergen is set to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut on May 18, 2023. He will be driving the No. 91 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing and its Project 91 programme at the Chicago Street Course. In qualifying for the race, he secured the 3rd spot on the starting grid.
What is Project 91 NASCAR?
In May 2022, Justin Marks, co-owner of Trackhouse Racing, unveiled Project 91. The initiative aims to broaden the team’s global presence by entering the No. 91 Chevrolet in the Cup Series for international racers on a part-time basis.
