Trackhouse Racing is entering a period of transformation, as both Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen, pivotal members from last season, will face notable changes heading into 2026. In a move that emphasizes both progress and heritage, the organization has announced that van Gisbergen will run the No. 97 car, which holds personal significance for him, showcasing the Shane van Gisbergen new car number as a central symbol of his next racing chapter.
Trackhouse Prepares for New Season with Significant Adjustments
The atmosphere within Trackhouse Racing is charged with energy as familiar faces prepare for evolutions in their roles and teams. Both Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen secured six combined wins and playoff spots in 2025, proving essential to the team’s competitive spirit. As Trackhouse prepares to introduce Connor Zilisch, who will join as a full-time driver in 2026, stability and novelty blend as the core drivers adapt to a shifting team dynamic and new ambitions. These developments are rooted in Trackhouse’s aspirations to build on past successes while nurturing the tradition and unique qualities that define its drivers.
Ross Chastain to Work with Brandon McSwain as New Crew Chief
In addition to driver line-up changes, Ross Chastain faces a fresh partnership atop his pit box. The team recently appointed Brandon McSwain as Chastain’s crew chief for the upcoming season. McSwain brings a wealth of engineering prowess, having spent recent years as a race engineer with JR Motorsports and Hendrick Motorsports, most notably serving as the lead race engineer for William Byron during Byron’s notable runs in the Championship 4. Over his career, McSwain has contributed to 16 Cup Series wins, positioning him as a strategic asset to Chastain’s pursuit of further success.
“I’m thrilled to have Brandon McSwain as my crew chief next year,”
said Ross Chastain, who advanced to the Round of 12 in 2025.
“I worked with Brandon very early in my career. And he has a lot of talent and experience as a race engineer. He’s someone I’ve kept my eye on for a while in case the chance to work together ever came to fruition. And I’m looking forward to getting started.”
— Ross Chastain, Driver
The appointment is also a significant moment for McSwain, who steps into the crew chief role after years of contributing from the engineering side.
“Becoming a crew chief and working with Trackhouse and Ross is a huge opportunity in my career,”
shared McSwain, a Florida native and UNC Charlotte engineering graduate.
“Ross is dedicated to the sport and puts a lot of time and effort into his craft. I’m looking forward to helping him continue his success while taking the next step in my career.”
“I appreciate Ross believing in me and can’t wait to get started.”
— Brandon McSwain, Crew Chief
This transition comes as Phil Surgen, Chastain’s former crew chief who guided him over five seasons, shifts to another role within Trackhouse. Chastain expressed gratitude to Surgen for their achievements and camaraderie, reinforcing the sentiment of continuity and respect within the organization.
Shane van Gisbergen Embraces a Meaningful Shift to No. 97
In a move resonant with emotion and legacy, Shane van Gisbergen, a dominant figure on road courses with five wins in 2025, will now compete under the No. 97 for Trackhouse. This update follows the announcement that the No. 88, van Gisbergen’s previous number, will be inherited by rookie Connor Zilisch. Van Gisbergen recently signed a multi-year contract extension with Trackhouse, signaling the team’s confidence in his capabilities moving forward.
The transition to No. 97 is filled with personal significance for van Gisbergen, tying his NASCAR journey back to his family roots. The number has been synonymous with his racing identity, including its use in his personal social media handle.
“It’s a number that means a lot to my family and me,”
van Gisbergen revealed, reflecting on his journey as the 2025 Cup Series Rookie of the Year.
“My dad used it in his racing career. So, when I started racing, I wanted to use it, too. And then, basically, I’ve used the No. 97 in everything since.”
— Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
For van Gisbergen, the switch is more than a logistical decision; it marks an opportunity to blend history with new milestones.
“I’ve had many special moments with that number. And it’s cool to get the opportunity to create even more in the Cup Series.”
— Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
The No. 97 not only honors his father’s career but also serves as an emblem of persistence, passion, and family pride on the world racing stage.
The Road Ahead for Trackhouse Racing
With these changes, Trackhouse Racing signals its intention to continually evolve while honoring the rich backgrounds and strengths of its team members. Brandon McSwain’s arrival as Chastain’s crew chief is set to bring fresh strategic insights, while Shane van Gisbergen’s connection to the No. 97 promises a deeper sense of purpose as he aims to add more victories to his record. Connor Zilisch’s anticipated entrance in 2026, paired with these shifts among established drivers, positions the organization for an energetic campaign blending youthful ambition with seasoned drive.
The decision to spotlight the Shane van Gisbergen new car number underscores the importance of personal identity and sentiment in motorsports. It establishes an atmosphere where drivers can not only strive for excellence but also carry their stories onto the track. As Trackhouse Racing prepares for another competitive NASCAR Cup Series season, the synergy between tradition and innovation is set to define both their strategy and spirit going forward.
Proud of everything we’ve accomplished over the past 5 years and nobody I’d rather have done it with. Thank you for helping me become a better race car driver and glad you’re still around the shop. Here’s to many more cold ones down the road. Cheers, buddy! 🍻 pic.twitter.com/iDdHEPLnlD
— Ross Chastain (@RossChastain) November 5, 2025
It's more than just a car number. pic.twitter.com/kqEcZwP2Pw
— Trackhouse Racing (@TeamTrackhouse) November 7, 2025
