Shane van Gisbergen has further established himself in the NASCAR arena by securing his fourth win of the season this past weekend at Watkins Glen. Known for his impressive road course skills, van Gisbergen’s performance on these tracks is fueling his bid for the 2025 Cup Series title, despite challenges on the traditional oval circuits.
Full-Time Commitment Enhances Team Development and Car Performance
Transitioning from a part-time competitor last year to a full-time driver has been pivotal for van Gisbergen’s growth within Trackhouse Racing. His consistent presence with the No. 88 Chevrolet has enabled him to better communicate his needs and contribute to ongoing car improvements. This steady engagement has allowed the team to make meaningful progress throughout the season.
Van Gisbergen explained this development during the Dale Jr. Download podcast, stating,
“I think, for me, it was great. From last year, we just built from the car that we had, and what I wanted from the car. We’re kind of building a notebook as well, That’s kind of helping us to keep ahead, and keep developing.”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR driver
He added,
“Last year, I had a Trackhouse car, but it was sort of the base car and given to Kaulig to run. It would be a good car, but this year, when you’re with the same guys every week, and you’re driving the same car, I’ve just been able to build on the setup. We’ve sort of been developing what we need from the car, and what I want. The guys have been able to give it to me, rather than doing one race and waiting a month or two for the next one. It’s just progression.”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR driver
Road Courses Highlight Van Gisbergen’s Expertise
Van Gisbergen‘s ability to fine-tune his approach on road courses sets him apart in the NASCAR circuit. He shared his insights about the distinction between oval and road course racing, noting that his feedback is more precise and effective on road courses.
He said,
“I’m learning that from the ovals, what feeling I want from the car. But on a road course, I can tell them exactly what I want in the car, and they know how to give it to me. It’s really been a good help this year. I think we’ve gotten better as a car. The car has gotten a lot better, and that’s really helped.”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR driver
Challenges on Ovals Remain Key to Van Gisbergen’s Championship Aspirations
Despite his soaring success on road courses, van Gisbergen acknowledges the need to elevate his performance on oval tracks to be a serious Cup Series championship contender. His overall standing hinges on his ability to translate his skills across all types of circuits within the season.
He will have another opportunity to strengthen his credentials this Saturday at Richmond Raceway in Virginia. Last season, van Gisbergen competed in the Xfinity Series at Richmond, starting 12th and finishing 15th, signaling room for improvement on oval layouts.
Implications for the 2025 NASCAR Season and Beyond
Shane van Gisbergen’s increasing win streak and methodical build-up of a road course-focused strategy position him as a formidable competitor as the 2025 NASCAR season approaches. His full-time commitment and close collaboration with Trackhouse Racing are expected to further refine his car’s setup and race-day performance. If van Gisbergen can carry this momentum forward and improve on oval tracks, his chances of securing the Cup Series title will notably rise.