Shane van Gisbergen’s 2025 Go Bowling at The Glen victory was more than just another win—it was a calculated display of road course dominance. Across 90 laps, the New Zealander combined unmatched skill, razor-sharp strategy, and absolute composure to claim his fourth consecutive road course triumph in the NASCAR Cup Series. While others struggled to match the pace, SVG set a standard that has left rivals searching for answers and fans debating his growing legacy in the sport.
Key Highlights
Fourth straight NASCAR Cup Series road course win for van Gisbergen.
Victory margin of 11.116 seconds.
Led 38 of 90 laps at Watkins Glen International.
Trackhouse Racing secures flawless pit strategy and car setup.
Ties Chase Elliott for second-longest road course win streak.
Exceptional Road Course Skill and Background
Van Gisbergen’s mastery at Watkins Glen was no accident. With a background in Australia’s Supercars Championship, he has spent years perfecting techniques like late braking, smooth throttle application, and precision through technical turns. In 2025 alone, he has conquered Mexico City, Chicago, Sonoma, and now The Glen—cementing a reputation as the most formidable road course driver in the field. His familiarity with adapting to track evolution gave him an edge as rivals faltered in the demanding 11-turn layout.
Strategic Qualifying and Race Management
Starting from the front row after qualifying second to Ryan Blaney, van Gisbergen was perfectly positioned to avoid early chaos. His decisive pass for the lead on Lap 25 shifted control of the race. With the Trackhouse Racing crew timing pit stops to avoid traffic and deliver fresh tires at crucial moments, SVG maintained clean air and dictated the pace. Every move was calculated, ensuring he stayed ahead of rivals while conserving fuel and minimizing tire wear for the closing laps.
Flawless Execution and Team Support
Mistakes often decide road course races—but not this one. SVG’s rhythm was unshakable, his lines precise, and his composure evident even under restart pressure. Trackhouse Racing delivered a finely tuned No. 91 Chevrolet, with adjustments in tire pressures and suspension that perfectly matched the track’s elevation changes. Behind the scenes, personal motivation played a role too—having his father at the track after the recent loss of his mother gave this victory deeper meaning.
“Good to get that one back. What an awesome race. Coming back through the field after my final pit stop, I had a lot of fun. The car was just amazing again. Another win. Awesome.” – Shane van Gisbergen
News in Brief: Why Shane van Gisbergen Won the 2025 Watkins Glen
Shane van Gisbergen’s 2025 Go Bowling at The Glen win was the product of elite road course skill, calculated race management, flawless execution, and unwavering team support. Leading 38 laps and finishing 11.116 seconds ahead of Christopher Bell, SVG tied Chase Elliott for the second-longest road course win streak in Cup Series history. With four road course victories this season, a fresh Trackhouse Racing contract extension, and momentum heading into the playoffs, SVG remains the man to beat whenever the series turns right. Follow NASCAR’s upcoming action as the championship battle tightens in the final regular-season races.
ALSO READ: Shane van Gisbergen Extends Road Course Dominance With 4th Straight Win at Watkins Glen
