Shane van Gisbergen has made headlines with his candid remarks comparing his time in the Australian Supercars series to his current role in NASCAR, with his NASCAR transition sparking renewed attention on his career trajectory. The 36-year-old rookie, now with Trackhouse Racing in the Cup Series, has found success in the United States following a decorated stint at home, describing his move as motivated by both professional challenges and dissatisfaction with Supercars.
Rising to Fame in NASCAR After Supercar Success
Shane van Gisbergen, a New Zealander who conquered the Australian Supercar championship three times, moved to the United States to join NASCAR, surprising many as a rookie given his extensive racing resume. At first, NASCAR fans barely knew his name, but his striking victory at Chicago in 2023 quickly cemented his place on the scene. Backed by supportive teammates and a smooth transition, van Gisbergen stepped from Supercars into the Cup and Xfinity Series with confidence and ambition.
Unfiltered Critique of Australian Supercars Fuels Departure
Van Gisbergen did not mince words regarding his former racing series. In an ESPN discussion, he criticized the current Australian Supercar, expressing frustration with its design and performance. He directly stated that the state of the Supercar was problematic, even calling it a “piece of s***.” He further revealed,
is one of the reasons why I left.
—Shane van Gisbergen, Driver.
This blunt admission illustrates the level of dissatisfaction van Gisbergen felt in his previous role, marking a significant reason for seeking challenges elsewhere. His willingness to address these shortcomings has drawn both praise and controversy in motorsport circles.
Adapting to NASCAR’s Unique Demands
With extensive Supercar experience behind him, van Gisbergen quickly adapted to the rigorous world of NASCAR, facing new technical and driving challenges. He explained how the weight and downforce of NASCAR vehicles significantly differ from the Australian series, which influenced his strategies, particularly in cornering and race approach. The Next Gen Cup car, being heavier and closer to the ground due to the added downforce, required a significant shift in driving style.
Despite initial difficulties, he has grown to enjoy the dynamic nature of NASCAR, learning continuously as a full-time Cup Series competitor. Trackhouse Racing has encouraged this development, offering van Gisbergen the chance to explore the limits of stock car racing in North America.
Notable Triumphs Strengthen His Position
Van Gisbergen’s impact was immediate and visible: his debut win at the Chicago street course in 2023 was quickly followed by more success in the Xfinity Series, where he recorded three additional victories. Upon his return to the Cup Series as a full-time entrant, he claimed a major victory at the Mexico City road course—his second Cup win—which further solidified his reputation as a dominant force on street circuits.
These consistent performances were instrumental in his contract renewal for the 2026 season. The team’s confidence in van Gisbergen resulted in the decision to part ways with Daniel Suarez, bringing in Connor Zilisch as his new teammate for the next chapter in Trackhouse Racing’s journey. This move has reshaped the team’s driver lineup and provided fresh opportunities for both van Gisbergen and Zilisch.
What Lies Ahead for Van Gisbergen
Returning to Chicago, where his U.S. journey began, Shane van Gisbergen aims to continue his dominance on street courses. His frank criticism of the Australian Supercar series, combined with his rapid adaptation and successes in NASCAR, have marked him as a transformative figure in international motorsport. The ongoing season will reveal whether his bold leap, spurred by dissatisfaction and a drive for new heights, will continue to upend expectations, both for himself and his team at Trackhouse Racing.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Shane van Gisbergen quit Supercars?
A. Shane van Gisbergen believes he made the “right choice” by leaving Supercars to follow a NASCAR career.
This year, he starts his first full season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing after 15 years in Supercars.
Q. Why did Shane van Gisbergen leave Supercars?
A. I’m leaving V8 Supercars for personal reasons that I don’t want to talk about publicly. I’m going back to New Zealand and haven’t set future plans yet.
