Shane van Gisbergen, who has made headlines in the racing world since his transition from Supercars to NASCAR, recently opened up about which circuits he considers the most challenging in the NASCAR series. Sharing his experiences on the Rubbin is Racing podcast, van Gisbergen highlighted Circuit of the Americas (COTA) and Watkins Glen as the tracks that continue to test his skills, underscoring his perspective on the difficulties of adapting to new environments as a top driver. The topic of Shane van Gisbergen NASCAR toughest tracks provides insight into how even accomplished racers face steep learning curves on American soil.
Transitioning from Supercars to NASCAR’s Demanding Arenas
Originally from New Zealand, Shane van Gisbergen is running a part-time schedule in the Xfinity Series with JR Motorsports and a full-time campaign in the Cup Series for Trackhouse Racing. With an impressive history as a three-time Supercars Championship winner—having taken the titles in 2016, 2021, and 2022, and recording 80 wins and 46 poles—van Gisbergen made the jump to NASCAR in 2023, quickly proving his mettle in the American motorsports scene. His rapid adaptation was on full display when he clinched an unprecedented victory at his debut NASCAR Cup Series race in Chicago, making history both as the first modern-era driver to win their maiden Cup start and as the first New Zealander to win in a Cup event.
Identifying the Most Difficult NASCAR Circuits
Van Gisbergen, known for his meticulous approach to mastering tracks, discussed his toughest NASCAR challenges on the Rubbin is Racing YouTube podcast. He highlighted two specific circuits that stand out:
“Maybe COTA. COTA, we haven’t been that fast or that good at. But also Watkins Glen eats me. I, you know, we were the fastest car there last year. And on the last lap, I made an error. And Chris, Chris Buscher got past me. So I still am angry at myself for making that mistake. But we were the fastest car on that day. But I guess COTA is where we haven’t been fast. Yeah. Yeah.”
Van Gisbergen’s reflections illustrate how COTA, a modern road course in Texas, has consistently challenged his adaptability due to its diverse corners and technical layout. At Watkins Glen, his speed was evident, yet a final-lap mistake in 2024 allowed Chris Buscher to pass him for the victory, a moment that still fuels his competitive drive. These candid insights reveal the high standards van Gisbergen sets for himself, regardless of previous accolades or recent successes.
Recent Triumphs and a Growing Legacy
Since his move to NASCAR, van Gisbergen’s career trajectory has remained upward. His latest achievement came at the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Chicago Street Race, where he secured a rare double victory by winning both the Cup and Xfinity events, starting each from pole position. This accomplishment brings his Cup Series win total to three and marks back-to-back victories at the challenging Chicago Street Course. He now stands in elite company, having matched feats previously accomplished only by drivers like Kyle Busch, underscoring his talent and determination to master different types of tracks.
Reflecting on Leaving Supercars for NASCAR
The journey from Australia’s Supercars to America’s NASCAR circuit was more than a career move for van Gisbergen—it was a personal rejuvenation. He spoke openly about his feelings towards his prior racing experience and the drastic change since his shift to NASCAR:
“It justifies, or backs up, why we’ve done it and why Justin [Marks] believes in me. Justin looks like the smartest guy here after me locking into the playoffs, especially how dismal it looked early in the year. We all kept that belief.”
“I feel like I made the best decision ever. I was really hating racing in Australia. I hated driving those cars. Now, I’ve never had so much fun racing, going to the racetrack every single weekend. I really love what I do,” he added.
Van Gisbergen credits Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks for supporting him during the challenging early months of his rookie season. Over time, he found greater confidence, transforming from struggling near the back of the field to clinching multiple Cup Series wins and a guaranteed playoff berth. His candid remarks spotlight the emotional intensity, pressure, and eventual satisfaction that define his NASCAR adventure.
The Broader Impact and What’s Next
Shane van Gisbergen’s honest assessment of NASCAR’s toughest tracks not only offers a window into his adaptation to American racing, but also reflects the evolving landscape of the sport itself. His ability to contend at venues like Chicago Street Course, while still learning to conquer places like Circuit of the Americas and Watkins Glen, signals both the high standards he sets for himself and the challenges international drivers face in NASCAR. As van Gisbergen continues to push for excellence and inspire with his candid reflections, fans and competitors alike will be watching to see if he can finally master those circuits that have, so far, proven elusive.
