Shane van Gisbergen’s NASCAR performance at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) stunned competitors just weeks after his playoff elimination, reinvigorating debate over his racing potential. The New Zealander, despite an early postseason exit, channeled the setback into a forceful showing that left NASCAR’s top drivers wary of the No. 88 car’s renewed energy.
SVG’s Resurgence Ignites New Hampshire Competition
Although van Gisbergen, known as SVG, was unable to move past the Round of 16 in the playoffs following a stellar Cup series debut that featured four high-profile wins, he quickly rebounded. At NHMS, the Trackhouse Racing driver showcased an assertive groove and sharpened drive, demonstrating that he remains a major threat on any circuit.
Historically revered for his dominance on road courses—winning at Mexico City, Chicago, Sonoma, and Watkins Glen—SVG acclimated quickly to NASCAR after a celebrated Supercars career in Australia. His back-to-back triumphs at Chicago and Sonoma established his reputation, with his skill at Watkins Glen further solidifying his status as a formidable title contender and “road course king.” The road racing dominance earned him praise and raised expectations across the garage, yet translating that success onto traditional oval tracks proved challenging.
Facing and Overcoming Oval Racing Doubts
Once the playoffs advanced, van Gisbergen struggled to deliver the same advantage he held on road tracks. The Cup series’ ovals exposed the learning curve still ahead, culminating in an elimination at Bristol Motor Speedway that halted his championship bid. Despite disappointment, the 36-year-old accepted full responsibility, expressing determination to return stronger for the remainder of the season.
He turned that resolve into action at New Hampshire. For only his second career start at the venue—and his first there in a Cup Series car—SVG produced a career-best qualifying effort. His lap of 29.409 seconds matched that of experienced competitor Denny Hamlin, placing him tenth on the grid, just one position shy of Hamlin and only outpaced by six of the Round of 12 contestants. This leap forward came just weeks after his notable P11 at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, underscoring his rapid adaptation to different circuits.
No. 88’s Charge During the NHMS Race
The race itself saw van Gisbergen capitalize on his qualifying momentum. From the opening laps, the No. 88 Chevrolet, representing Team Trackhouse, surged into the spotlight. Within just four laps, SVG advanced into sixth place, overtaking 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick. By lap 50, he passed Carson Hocevar and broke into the top five, demonstrating speed and confidence that impressed even seasoned NASCAR watchers.
“It’s so, so, so early in this race, but the pace on this No. 88 @TeamTrackhouse Chevrolet is LEGIT. Van Gisbergen got by Tyler Reddick for sixth and is consistently among the top five to six in lap times, 25 laps into the run.#NASCAR https://t.co/ZypnO5EqU5”
— Joseph Srigley, Reporter
Consistently posting competitive lap times, van Gisbergen’s performance sent a clear signal to rivals and fans alike: his adaptability and racing acumen extend well beyond his road course expertise. The progress is remarkable, considering his limited oval track experience and past perceptions about his potential in this format.
Mixed Reactions and Growing Respect Within NASCAR
Reactions inside the NASCAR paddock remain divided on the Kiwi’s role in the series. While some critics have dismissed SVG as simply an imported talent meant to broaden NASCAR’s audience, others acknowledge his rapid growth and strategic use of the current “win-and-in” playoff format, which suits his flair for major moments.
His road course wins and high-profile performances have drawn both admiration and skepticism, especially in light of his dramatic playoff departure. Many initially classified him as an oval novice, doubting his ability to transition from international racing circuits to the unique demands of NASCAR’s classic venues. Nevertheless, in his first full-time campaign at stock car racing’s highest level, van Gisbergen persistently refutes these doubts by excelling in unexpected scenarios and winning over skeptical observers.
Bubba Wallace and Shane van Gisbergen’s interactions during NH qualifying even drew additional attention, reflecting the competitive camaraderie developing among NASCAR’s standout drivers such as Tyler Reddick and Carson Hocevar. As the season continues, eyes remain on SVG’s trajectory and his relentless quest to master oval racing.
With every race, Shane van Gisbergen’s NASCAR performance continues to challenge preconceived notions about international drivers and paves the way for a more inclusive and competitive future in the sport. His adaptability, courage, and willingness to learn suggest that his impact on NASCAR is far from finished, and the remainder of the season will be watched with keen interest by fans and competitors alike.
It’s so, so, so early in this race, but the pace on this No. 88 @TeamTrackhouse Chevrolet is LEGIT.
Van Gisbergen got by Tyler Reddick for sixth and is consistently among the top five to six in lap times, 25 laps into the run.#NASCAR https://t.co/ZypnO5EqU5
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) September 21, 2025
