Shane van Gisbergen’s transition into the world of NASCAR ovals has been an ongoing process, as he continues to adjust and grow in this specialized form of racing. Since his debut, van Gisbergen has steadily improved, with his performances revealing his determination to master a format that contrasts sharply with his road course background. The focus for the New Zealander and his Trackhouse team has shifted from chasing easy playoff spots on road courses to consistently earning points on every type of track, especially the challenging ovals.
Adapting to the Unique Demands of Oval Racing
When van Gisbergen entered the NASCAR ranks, expectations centered around his road course expertise, with many believing quick success and playoff qualification would follow. However, changes in the playoff format demanded that drivers earn points through consistent finishes, making it necessary for van Gisbergen to raise his game on oval tracks and remain competitive throughout the schedule.
Over two seasons—one in the Xfinity Series and another in the Cup Series—van Gisbergen has taken on more oval tracks, working to unlock the secrets of their unique demands. Signs of progress have emerged. After securing a top-ten starting spot at New Hampshire, and running in the top ten during the first stage, he also achieved a top-ten finish at Kansas the following week. Even late in the season, he found himself contending inside the top five at several events, though race incidents or handling issues sometimes prevented him from maintaining those spots until the checkered flag.
Performance Metrics Reflect Upward Trajectory
Though not without setbacks, including being collected in others’ accidents and struggling with car handling, van Gisbergen’s performance statistics reveal tangible improvement. His average finish on ovals decreased from 26.6 in the season’s first half to 22.73 in the second half, demonstrating that his effort and adaptation are paying off. For van Gisbergen and his Trackhouse team, this progress is an encouraging sign, even though it has not yet translated to a victory on NASCAR ovals.
SVG Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead
Despite notable advances, van Gisbergen acknowledges that he’s not yet arrived at the point where he can consistently challenge for wins on ovals. He openly assesses his current standing, recognizing his growth but understanding there is much more to learn.
“I think genuinely to win one outright on speed. We’re not there yet, but I can still, I still feel things every week. I have light bulb moments or I feel big progression every week, still, so if that stops happening, I’ll start getting worried.”
— Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse driver
“But I still know that I have so much to learn and get better at. So yeah, there’s still progress to come. I’d love to win a race on an oval, but I want to genuinely deserve it too,”
— Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse driver
What’s Next for Shane van Gisbergen and Trackhouse?
As the season progresses, attention will be on Shane van Gisbergen’s ongoing efforts in the NASCAR Cup Series. His ultimate aim is to become a legitimate contender on ovals, testing himself against drivers whose experience is steeped in this racing discipline. The improvements in his average finishes point to a trajectory that could eventually see him vying for victories once the team and driver find that extra performance edge. For now, van Gisbergen’s journey exemplifies resilience and adaptation as he continues to pursue success in the world of NASCAR ovals.
🇳🇿 @shanevg97 thinks there's more speed to be found from himself on ovals before the No. 97 team can legitimately challenge for a victory this season.
🔊 "I think genuinely to win one outright on speed, we're not there yet […] I feel big progression every week, still." pic.twitter.com/SmUlPCa4am
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) February 12, 2026
