Shane Van Gisbergen Bio
Early Life and Background
Shane Robert van Gisbergen was born on May 9, 1989, in Auckland, New Zealand. He grew up in a family that fostered a passion for motorsports, which led him to begin racing at a young age. His early exposure to racing included competing in motocross, quarter midgets, and karts from 1998 to 2004, where he quickly developed his skills and competitive spirit.
Van Gisbergen’s racing career took off when he placed third in the 2004/2005 New Zealand Formula First Championship, earning the Rookie of the Year award. He continued to excel in various racing series, showcasing his talent and determination.
Path to NASCAR
After establishing himself in New Zealand motorsports, van Gisbergen made his way to the Supercars Championship, where he became a prominent figure. He debuted in the series in 2007 and quickly made a name for himself, eventually winning three championships in 2016, 2021, and 2022. His success in Supercars opened the door for his transition to the NASCAR Cup Series, where he joined Trackhouse Racing in 2023.
Van Gisbergen’s entry into NASCAR was marked by his participation in the Project 91 program, which aimed to bring international drivers into the series. His impressive performance in his debut race at the 2023 Grant Park 220 in Chicago set the stage for a promising NASCAR career.
Shane Van Gisbergen Career
Early Career (2004–2012)
Van Gisbergen’s early career in New Zealand racing included significant achievements in the Formula Ford Championship and the Toyota Racing Series. He gained recognition for his speed and skill, leading to a move to the Supercars Championship in 2007. Over the next several years, he raced for various teams, including Stone Brothers Racing and Tekno Autosports, where he consistently finished in the top ranks.
His breakthrough came in 2016 when he joined Triple Eight Race Engineering, where he won his first championship that same year, solidifying his status as a top driver in the series.
Supercars Championship Breakthrough (2016–2022)
In 2016, van Gisbergen won his first Supercars Championship title, dominating the season with eight race victories. He continued to perform at a high level, winning the championship again in 2021 and 2022, and securing his place as one of the all-time greats in the series. His success included three wins at the prestigious Bathurst 1000, further cementing his legacy in Australian motorsport.
Trackhouse Racing Era (2023–Present)
Van Gisbergen made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2023, driving the No. 91 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing. He won his first race at the Grant Park 220, becoming the first driver to win in their NASCAR Cup Series debut since 1963. This victory not only marked a significant milestone in his career but also made him the first New Zealander to win a race in the Cup Series.
In 2025, he transitioned to full-time racing with Trackhouse Racing, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet. Despite a challenging start to the season, he secured a win at Mexico City, showcasing his adaptability and skill on road courses.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Van Gisbergen is known for his aggressive driving style and exceptional skill in road course racing. His experience in Supercars has equipped him with a deep understanding of car dynamics and race strategy, allowing him to excel in various racing conditions.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, van Gisbergen has achieved remarkable milestones, including three Supercars Championships and multiple wins at the Bathurst 1000. His transition to NASCAR has been equally impressive, with a historic debut win and continued success in the series.
Shane Van Gisbergen Career Wins
Van Gisbergen has accumulated numerous wins across various racing series, including a total of 80 wins in the Supercars Championship and multiple victories in NASCAR.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
In the NASCAR Cup Series, van Gisbergen has recorded six wins, including his debut victory at the 2023 Grant Park 220. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a formidable competitor, and he continues to be a strong contender in the series.
Previous Supercars Championship Achievements
In the Supercars Championship, van Gisbergen’s achievements include three championships and multiple race wins, making him one of the most successful drivers in the series’ history.
Shane Van Gisbergen Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Van Gisbergen is married to Jessica Dane, who has a background in motorsports as the program manager at Corvette Racing. Their shared passion for racing has contributed to their strong partnership.
Personal Life
Van Gisbergen maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on his racing career while enjoying time with his family.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for van Gisbergen as he continues to establish himself in the NASCAR Cup Series. Starting the season with a challenging Daytona 500, he rebounded with a significant win at Mexico City, showcasing his prowess on road courses. As the season progresses, he remains a strong contender for playoff positions, demonstrating resilience and skill in his racing endeavors.
