Shane van Gisbergen, a prominent name in motorsports, delivered a witty retort to a fan during the NASCAR offseason, after sharing a video of himself riding a motocross bike. This exchange surfaced shortly after Trackhouse Racing made official that the New Zealander would pilot the No. 97 car, as he prepares for his second full-time NASCAR Cup Series campaign in 2026, solidifying his place in the current Shane van Gisbergen NASCAR update.
Van Gisbergen, a three-time Australian Supercars champion, showcased his skills by maneuvering a red #97 Honda around a dirt track at Daniels Ridge MX. He effortlessly tackled jumps and berms, and the online video displayed why his motor racing versatility is admired in both Australia and the United States. Sharing the moment on social media, van Gisbergen wrote:
“Good to get back on a moto after a couple of years. Pretty rusty but awesome fun.”
While many fans voiced enthusiasm for van Gisbergen’s adventurous streak, some expressed concern about potential risks during the crucial lead-up to the 2026 Daytona 500. One particularly anxious follower posed an intense question:
“If you broke both your legs and tore your both acls who would be in your car for Daytona?”
Van Gisbergen responded with characteristic humor:
“I bet you’re fun at parties.”
The playful demeanor displayed in this exchange reflects van Gisbergen’s widespread appeal among NASCAR supporters. While some fans worry about the dangers drivers face during demanding off-track activities, most continue to celebrate his “race everything” mentality, admiring his readiness to push boundaries in every discipline. This is in part because van Gisbergen’s background includes achievements across a wide variety of motorsports—from open-wheel and quad bikes to dominating the Australian Supercars circuit and, most recently, making waves in the stock car scene in the United States.
From Australian Supercars Icon to NASCAR Trailblazer
Van Gisbergen’s transition into NASCAR has been marked by rapid progress and headline-making achievements. His big moment came in 2023, when he claimed victory driving the No. 91 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet in his debut at the Chicago Street Course. The excitement surrounding his journey only grew as he split his 2024 races between the Nos. 16 and 13 entries, before stepping into the No. 88 full-time for 2025. In his first full season at this level, he compiled five race wins, finished twelfth in the final standings, and captured the NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year award. Notably, road courses quickly became his dominion, turning into near-guaranteed wins for the Kiwi driver.
This sustained performance did not go unnoticed by Trackhouse Racing, who extended his contract in August and outlined strategic lineup developments for coming years. With Connor Zilisch set to make his Cup debut in the No. 88 in 2026, van Gisbergen will drive the No. 97 car, restoring a number that holds special resonance from his accomplished Supercars days.
Looking Ahead: Stable Team and Personal Milestones
Looking to 2026, Shane van Gisbergen and Trackhouse Racing have built a foundation of consistency and progress. With his move to the No. 97, van Gisbergen brings with him the crew chief and team members who supported him throughout 2025, preserving vital chemistry within the garage. Throughout the latter portion of that season, van Gisbergen made significant strides on oval tracks, earning multiple top-ten finishes and demonstrating his ongoing development in the Cup Series. Despite an early exit in the Round of 16, he is expected to compete hard for a deeper playoff run next year.
The buildup to the 2026 Daytona 500 will focus not only on van Gisbergen’s dynamic racing style but also on his ability to blend international experience with NASCAR’s unique challenges. Trackhouse Racing is counting on this combination to deliver continued success, while fans remain engaged by his unfiltered personality and knack for memorable moments both on and off the track. With two months until the season’s marquee event, all eyes will be on van Gisbergen as he attempts to add to his growing legacy within the sport.
Good to get back on a moto after a couple of years. Pretty rusty but awesome fun pic.twitter.com/E2TZVICfUO
— Shane van Gisbergen (@shanevg97) December 14, 2025
