Shane van Gisbergen, the three-time Supercars champion turned NASCAR sensation, is gearing up for his highly anticipated full-time Cup Series debut in 2025 with Trackhouse Racing. Driving the No. 88 Chevrolet, SVG is embracing a grounded approach as he transitions from a successful Xfinity Series stint to the premier level of NASCAR competition.
After a solid 2024 Xfinity campaign that included three race wins and a P12 finish in the championship standings, van Gisbergen recently shared his expectations—or lack thereof—for the upcoming season during an interview with Fox Sports.
A year of learning ahead
SVG made it clear that his rookie Cup season will be more about growth than immediate results. Acknowledging the significant differences between Cup and Xfinity machinery, the New Zealand native is focused on honing his skills, particularly on oval tracks—a discipline he admits is still new territory.
“I don’t have any expectations for it. I guess it is another learning year again because the cars are so different,” van Gisbergen said. “Of course, the results are going to have to start coming and improving, especially on the oval side.”
Oval progress and highlights from 2024
Van Gisbergen’s Xfinity season with Kaulig Racing was a crash course in American stock car racing, and he credits the experience with helping him grow as a driver. Despite his road course prowess, SVG cites his performance at Bristol Motor Speedway—a challenging short track—as a standout moment in his journey.
“I got lapped, and it was one of the best races I’ve ever had,” he said, reflecting on the race where he finished 18th. “Just battling with people the whole time on the fence (up high and then) down the bottom—I’ve never learned so much in one day. The race was epic. It was the most fun I’ve ever had. And we were mid-pack.”
SVG’s ability to find value in mid-pack battles underscores his determination to adapt to NASCAR’s unique demands, particularly on ovals.
Trackhouse Racing’s big move
SVG’s entry into the Cup Series comes as Trackhouse Racing continues its ambitious expansion. The team, co-owned by Justin Marks and Pitbull, purchased one of Stewart-Haas Racing’s charters to secure van Gisbergen’s full-time Cup ride. After his Xfinity success, SVG is eager to capitalize on Trackhouse’s competitive infrastructure and proven ability to develop talent.
Balancing expectations with potential
While SVG is tempering expectations for 2025, his rapid adaptation to NASCAR in 2024 has fans and analysts optimistic. His road course expertise is already well-established, but his progress on ovals could be the key to a breakout rookie season.
Van Gisbergen’s measured approach suggests a driver ready to tackle the steep learning curve of the Cup Series, and his time with Kaulig Racing has laid a strong foundation for success.
The verdict
Shane van Gisbergen’s entry into the NASCAR Cup Series is one of the most exciting storylines of the 2025 season. With his humble mindset, relentless work ethic, and proven ability to adapt, SVG is poised to make waves as he embarks on this next chapter of his racing career.
As van Gisbergen himself put it: “The results are going to have to start coming and improving.” If his Xfinity progression is any indication, the No. 88 Chevrolet may become a dark horse contender sooner than expected.
