Shane van Gisbergen has hinted at a possible return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, fueling speculation about his continued rise in American motorsports. Fresh off his recent achievements, the New Zealander revealed his interest in adding more Truck Series races to his expanding list of NASCAR endeavors.
Van Gisbergen Eyes New Challenge After Recent Successes
Coming off a significant win at Circuit of the Americas, Shane van Gisbergen made it clear that he sees the Truck Series as an important next step in his NASCAR journey. With 11 victories spread between the Cup Series and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, van Gisbergen has showcased his ability to perform across different levels of American racing. He now has his sights set on testing his skills once again in the unique environment of the Truck Series.
During a post-race interview, van Gisbergen shared his desire for more opportunities in NASCAR’s truck division.
“I would love to drive one of those trucks,”
van Gisbergen said after his COTA win.
“I think maybe it’s Watkins or something later in the year is free, so I’m trying. But it’s hard to do. Everything costs money, I guess. But yeah, love to do more Truck starts.”
– Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
First Truck Series Experience and Drive for Improvement
Van Gisbergen is no stranger to the series, having debuted with Niece Motorsports in the Truck Series at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Piloting the No. 41 Chevrolet Silverado, he finished 19th—an introduction to oval racing that he described as valuable experience, even if it lacked the drama of his earlier street course debut victory in Chicago.
After his initial stint, van Gisbergen shifted his focus to progressing within NASCAR’s ranks. He completed a full O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, earning three wins before moving up to Cup competition in 2025, where he has already recorded five victories. The progression highlights van Gisbergen’s rapid adaptation and competitive edge on different tracks and formats.
Commitment to Growth Through New Experiences
Despite his quick ascent, van Gisbergen remains committed to broadening his skills, which is a driving reason behind his interest in returning to the Truck Series. Speaking about how races continue to challenge and teach him, he explained,
“Even things like today, the track, the cars are so different, but it’s so worthwhile,”
he reflected.
“I learned a lot today and tried a whole bunch of techniques, and I really hope it will help me tomorrow. So yeah, I’d love to get in a truck, and I think it’ll make me a better driver.”
– Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
For van Gisbergen, Truck Series racing is about building a more versatile set of skills rather than simply adding more starts to his resume. The trucks, from handling to specialized setups, especially on oval-heavy schedules, offer unique challenges for any driver. Each race presents a fresh opportunity for growth, which aligns with his relentless drive to compete at the highest level.
Logistical Obstacles to Another Truck Series Run
Although enthusiastic about a potential Truck Series return, van Gisbergen recognizes the hurdles involved. He mentioned Watkins Glen as a possible target for his next Truck race, as it would play to his road course strengths. However, achieving that goal hinges on factors like schedule alignment, financial backing, and cooperation with his current commitments.
Van Gisbergen’s main base at Trackhouse Racing already keeps him engaged with a full Cup Series calendar and selected O’Reilly Series appearances. Adding another Truck Series race will require significant coordination between teams, sponsors, and NASCAR event organizers.
What a Return Could Mean for NASCAR and Van Gisbergen
Should van Gisbergen return to the Truck Series, it would build on a compelling narrative that’s seen him progress from his debut win on the Chicago street course to being a true Cup Series contender. His willingness to step outside his comfort zone has contributed to one of NASCAR’s most exciting stories of recent years, and a successful run in the Truck Series could further cement his reputation as a driver who thrives on challenge and adaptation.
If history is a guide, van Gisbergen tends to succeed when he sets his sights on a goal, suggesting fans may indeed see him back in the Truck Series sooner rather than later. As the logistics get sorted, all eyes in the NASCAR world will watch to see if “Shane van Gisbergen Truck Series” soon becomes another chapter in his growing legacy, promising more memorable moments on American tracks.
