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The next chapter of the fast-moving Shane van Gisbergen experiment will be a full-time NASCAR Cup Series season in 2025. The New Zealander will be in a third Trackhouse Racing car as the organizati…
In 2025, Shane van Gisbergen will embark on a full-time NASCAR Cup Series season with Trackhouse Racing, driving a third car for the team as part of its expansion. His victory in his Cup Series debut in Chicago last year unexpectedly secured him the seat, altering his previous commitment to Supercars racing in Australia. Despite having more drivers than available seats, van Gisbergen was the clear choice for Trackhouse Racing due to his instant impact and widespread appeal since entering the United States motorsports scene. Van Gisbergen, after a successful season in the Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing, is looking forward to the challenge of competing full-time in the Cup Series next year following a year of learning and adapting to the new environment. This development, however, led to the departure of Zane Smith from Trackhouse Racing at the end of the season, marking a shift in the team’s driver lineup and plans. The decision-making process in NASCAR is a complex interplay of commercial considerations, personality fit, and performance potential, ultimately resulting in tough choices like the one made between Smith and van Gisbergen at Trackhouse Racing.
