Shane van Gisbergen was named the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year, according to a confirmation from Trackhouse Racing. The 36-year-old from New Zealand, who joined the series after an accomplished Supercars career, clinched the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie award during his very first full season, becoming the oldest to do so since Andy Lally in 2011.
Van Gisbergen’s debut in the Cup Series led to remarkable success, capturing five victories over the season and breaking the rookie wins record. All five victories occurred before the finale at Phoenix, ensuring his status as top rookie well before the season’s end.
“SVG wins @NASCAR Rookie of the Year‼️ With a rookie record-breaking 5️⃣ WINS.”
Trackhouse Racing posted this milestone, drawing attention to van Gisbergen’s impressive run. With five wins, five finishes in the top five, and seven times among the top ten, he also secured a place in the Cup Series Playoffs—though he was eliminated in the Round of 16. Despite not advancing further, his standout results solidified his spot in the record books.
Making History as an Experienced Rookie
Van Gisbergen’s performance drew praise and high expectations for the following year. His achievements as a rookie stood out, especially since he was the oldest newcomer to win the honor in over a decade. His move from Supercars to stock car racing exceeded many predictions, as he displayed adaptability and instinct, competing alongside NASCAR veterans like Chastain and preparing to team with rising talent Connor Zilisch in 2026. The breakthrough also highlighted van Gisbergen’s ability to transition quickly from one racing discipline to another, which impressed both fans and experts within the NASCAR Cup Series community.
Showcasing Skill on Some of NASCAR’s Toughest Tracks
Throughout the season, van Gisbergen demonstrated his quick learning curve and skillful adaptability. At the Bank of America ROVAL 400 in Charlotte, he achieved his fifth victory, drawing significant attention to his ability to master NASCAR’s demanding road courses and ovals within such a short time. Over 33 races, the Auckland native consistently delivered, performing at a level not often seen from first-year drivers. His confidence at challenging venues like Las Vegas Motor Speedway proved his progress in mastering one of stock car racing’s signature challenges: running fast and close to the wall during high-speed laps. Responding to a video of this feat, van Gisbergen described the exhilaration and difficulty of the maneuver:
“Still one of the craziest parts of oval racing to me. Send it in at 310kph/190mph, missing apex on purpose, heading to the wall hoping an imaginary grip strip/air pocket is going to save you from hitting it, then hearing the exhaust echo on the wall as it holds you off it. Wild.”
Shane van Gisbergen ultimately finished 12th in the playoff standings, a mark highlighted by his five wins—all of which occurred on road courses, including major triumphs at Charlotte Roval and Circuit of the Americas. Despite some challenging races, including a 38th-place result at Bristol and 24th at Phoenix, his performance in high-pressure moments contributed to his Rookie of the Year recognition. Elements such as leading 23 laps at COTA showcased the depth of his talent, even in tough fields and against the clock.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for 2026 After a Standout Rookie Year
Van Gisbergen’s strong debut reshapes expectations for international drivers entering the NASCAR Cup Series and raises the bar for rookies. As the Kiwi prepares for his second season with Trackhouse Racing, fans and analysts anticipate even more headline moments. Next year, he will race alongside Ross Chastain and rookie Connor Zilisch, increasing interest in how these team dynamics will play out.
His rapid adaptation, highlighted by victories and strategic prowess, points to a fresh wave of talent influencing the series. With his unique background and history-setting first year, Shane van Gisbergen has already become a pivotal figure in 2025, and his career continues to steer attention toward new possibilities for the Cup Series moving forward.
SVG wins @NASCAR Rookie of the Year‼️
With a rookie record-breaking 5️⃣ WINS. pic.twitter.com/cmEGfimki6
— Trackhouse Racing (@TeamTrackhouse) November 3, 2025
