Chase Elliott has praised Shane van Gisbergen for changing the standard in NASCAR’s road course events, emphasizing that his presence has been a game-changer for the field. As the final road course of the season approaches at the Charlotte Roval, the topic of Chase Elliott road course racing is front and center, highlighting how top drivers are adapting and competing at unprecedented levels.
Shane van Gisbergen’s Performance Inspires Competition
Shane van Gisbergen, a three-time Supercars champion from New Zealand, has quickly asserted himself as a force in NASCAR since his widely celebrated victory in his Cup debut on Chicago’s city streets in 2023. His transition to a full Xfinity Series campaign in 2024, and now joining Trackhouse Racing for the 2025 season, has seen van Gisbergen secure four of the five possible road course wins so far.
As NASCAR’s top drivers, including series veterans and newcomers, reflect on what’s raised the bar in the sport, Elliott openly acknowledged van Gisbergen’s significant role. The Dawsonville native sees SVG’s expertise as not only a personal challenge but a motivation for the entire field to step up at road course venues.
“There’s no question he’s done a fantastic job. I’ve always tried to give him the credit that I think he deserves for the discipline and how good he is at it, and I think that should be celebrated,” Elliott said in a press release.
Elliott’s Perspective Ahead of Charlotte Roval
The buzz around Charlotte Motor Speedway this week centers on the closing road course event—one that brings unique strategies and pressure. Media focus has been intense on drivers like Elliott and van Gisbergen as they prepare for Sunday’s high-stakes contest. Elliott underlined his respect for SVG’s talent but also made clear he’s determined to chase top results for himself and Hendrick Motorsports.
“I think you just give credit where it’s due, and I think he’s a good racer. He’s always raced me with a lot of respect, and you know, from my perspective, I just want I just want to get better and try to put myself and our team in the ballpark to go up there and run with it.” – Chase Elliott, #9 Hendrick Motorsports Driver
This season, Elliott’s skills on road courses remain top-tier. He has secured three top-five finishes, including a podium run at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. There, he shared the podium in a special celebration alongside Christopher Bell and race winner Shane van Gisbergen, underlining the global dimension and excitement surrounding the NASCAR Cup Series this year.
Playoff Stakes Amplify the Charlotte Roval Challenge
Looking ahead, the final road course of 2025 at the Charlotte Roval is set for Sunday at 3:00 p.m. ET, with Elliott already having clinched a spot in the Round of 8 thanks to a win at Kansas Speedway. Despite his secure playoff standing, Elliott is not backing off. He’s laser-focused on winning at Charlotte and pocketing the additional points that could be pivotal for his championship run.
The Xfinity Series and Cup Series’ attention has zeroed in on how playoff drivers like Elliott are aiming to maximize every opportunity. As Elliott explained, every point at this stage is crucial for progressing towards the Championship 4, which will be decided at Phoenix Raceway.
“My mind is really all about (the) Charlotte (Roval) right now because five more points would be a really big deal for us starting the next round and we will be in a position where you’re going to have to fight for wins over the next round too.” – Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Alongside Chase Elliott and Ryan Blaney, who both securely enter the next playoff round, other contenders face heightened pressure. Ross Chastain, Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, and Austin Cindric find themselves below the cutline, entering an elimination race at Charlotte that will determine their championship futures. For these drivers, every lap at the Charlotte Roval carries major consequences for their seasons, teams, and sponsors.
The Significance of Road Course Evolution in NASCAR
The rise of road course specialists like Shane van Gisbergen signals a new era for NASCAR, pushing long-time drivers and emerging talents alike to continuously develop their race craft. Chase Elliott road course racing has consistently been a storyline over recent years, but the Kiwi driver’s impact has inspired an even greater competitive spirit up and down the grid.
With the championship pressure mounting and the spotlight on drivers’ adaptability, NASCAR fans will watch eagerly as Elliott, van Gisbergen, and other stars tackle the Charlotte Roval. The outcome will not only affect championship aspirations but also showcase how the sport continues to evolve, driven by new faces and fierce rivalry in every corner and chicane.
