Shane van Gisbergen is making waves in the NASCAR Cup Series, and he’s not just another rookie—he’s a force to be reckoned with. With four spectacular victories under his belt and a treasure trove of over 20 bonus points, SVG is already in the playoffs, a feat that many seasoned drivers can only dream of achieving. But the real challenge lies ahead as he navigates the treacherous world of oval racing, where his survival in the playoffs hinges on mastering the remaining circuits.
SVG’s journey on oval tracks has been a slow burn, yet it’s an upward trajectory that indicates potential. His top performance this year came during the prestigious Coca-Cola 600, where he secured a commendable 14th place while his teammate Ross Chastain celebrated victory. Overall, van Gisbergen has achieved five top 20 finishes on ovals this season, but he knows that to thrive, he needs more track time—a scarce commodity in today’s NASCAR landscape with its fleeting practice sessions and rapid-fire race weekends.
“I’m just looking for time on the track,” SVG stated during a press conference in Richmond. “This week, I’ve never raced at this track in a Cup car, and it’s tough to get up to speed immediately. I’ve been studying the likes of Denny Hamlin and Ross Chastain closely, especially Ross, since our cars are quite similar. Understanding their gear changes and car balance is crucial.” His focus on learning from top drivers highlights the steep learning curve he faces.
At Iowa Speedway, SVG displayed promising speed during his stint on a short track, but unfortunate incidents thwarted his chance for a better finish. Short tracks are where he feels most competitive, yet he admits, “The short tracks have been a disaster,” revealing his frustration as he grapples with finding a rhythm. Despite this, he’s optimistic about harnessing his skills: “I feel good about my lap times, but I need to put everything together.”
One of the hurdles SVG faces is the absence of pit limiters in NASCAR, making it all too easy to fall victim to speeding penalties. “I started the year poorly with penalties,” he confessed. “But I’ve been more cautious lately, and it’s a tough adjustment since other racing series I’ve participated in allow for a more automated approach.”
SVG is diligently analyzing the styles of the sport’s elite, captivated by the unique driving techniques that dominate oval racing. “The differences in how top drivers approach the track are incredible,” he shared. “I’m trying to adapt my style for tracks I’ve never encountered before. I might experiment during the race if the opportunity arises.”
Despite his confidence on road courses, SVG admits uncertainty looms when it comes to maximizing speed and handling on ovals, a daunting reality in NASCAR’s demanding schedule. Yet, through it all, he relishes the challenge. Reflecting on his 2025 season, he expressed his joy: “Every race weekend is enjoyable. It feels more like a passion than a job.”
As SVG gears up to start 27th in the upcoming Saturday night showdown at Richmond—just a fraction behind one teammate and a hair ahead of another—the anticipation builds. Will he find the magic to break through the barriers that have hindered him? One thing is for sure: Shane van Gisbergen is not just here to compete; he’s here to conquer, and the NASCAR world better watch out!
