Shane van Gisbergen has described his decision to sign a new long-term contract with Trackhouse Racing as an obvious choice, following his dynamic transition from racing as a guest to becoming a prominent contender as a full-time driver. This Shane van Gisbergen Trackhouse Racing partnership was reaffirmed after the driver reflected on his remarkable path from the Supercars ranks in New Zealand to his swift ascent in NASCAR.
A three-time Supercar champion in his home country, van Gisbergen ventured to the United States and competed in three NASCAR events during the 2023 season. His arrival on the scene was historic, especially after taking the checkered flag at the first-ever Chicago Street Race in his debut Cup outing.
Discussing this meteoric rise in a recent appearance on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, van Gisbergen, who now drives the No. 97 Chevrolet, shared insights into his initial intentions and the surprises that shaped his journey.
“When I did that Chicago race, I had no intention of coming over here. And yeah, obviously it went very well,” Shane van Gisbergen said.
Reflecting on the crucial moments that influenced his next steps, van Gisbergen spoke about his Truck Series drive at Indianapolis Raceway Park and the feelings that accompanied his decision to extend his commitment to Trackhouse Racing, especially after such a breakthrough rookie year in the NASCAR Cup Series.
“I enjoyed that weekend so much. I was really sick, I remember, for the cup race, but I really loved the truck race at IRP and just how fun it was. … It’s been awesome. I’ve loved every moment and loved the challenge and so happy when Justin [Marks, team owner] offered to extend, it was a bit of a no brainer. Like, I can see myself here for a lot more years to come,” he added.
In preparation for the 2024 season, Trackhouse Racing structured a partnership that placed van Gisbergen in a full Xfinity Series campaign with Kaulig Racing. This arrangement allowed him to compete consistently in Xfinity events and make select appearances in Cup Series races, giving him broad exposure within NASCAR’s top national divisions.
Van Gisbergen’s first full season left a strong impression, as he became the Cup Series’ Rookie of the Year. He collected five road course victories, including wins in Mexico City, Sonoma, Chicago, and the Charlotte Roval. Adding to his list of achievements, he finished in the top ten during a Playoff race held at Kansas City’s oval.
Adapting to a New Chapter and Overcoming Career Challenges
Shane van Gisbergen has openly spoken about the personal and professional challenges involved in relocating and restarting his racing career in the United States. During his interview on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, he acknowledged the hurdles tied to such a significant move later in his life and career.
“It was hard moving across other sides of the world and starting a career again at a pretty old age, I guess, for doing that. But thankfully as a race car driver, we’ve got a pretty long shelf life,” Shane van Gisbergen said.
Red Bull’s involvement added further momentum to van Gisbergen’s campaign. The energy drink company, returning to NASCAR after a notable pause, provided sponsorship support for portions of the 2025 season, including a series of Cup Series races where the brand’s colors were also displayed by teammate Connor Zilisch. Red Bull’s revitalized investment—now spanning coverage for 25 races—underscored the growing confidence in van Gisbergen’s future within the series.
For the coming season, van Gisbergen is set to drive the newly designated No. 97 car which showcases fresh paint schemes blending a matte dark-blue base, symbolizing the strengthened alliance between Trackhouse Racing and Red Bull. The team has stated that these changes, along with its ongoing partnerships, are part of broader plans to build on the exciting momentum van Gisbergen has created.
As van Gisbergen adapts to new challenges and Trackhouse Racing deepens its collaboration with Red Bull, both parties express enthusiasm for the possibilities ahead. The Kiwi driver’s story continues to inspire fans and competitors, signaling that his journey in American motorsports is just beginning, with potential for further milestones in both the Xfinity and Cup Series.
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