After competing against each other for years in the Australian Supercars scene, Shane van Gisbergen and Scott McLaughlin are preparing for their NASCAR debut in the United States. The two drivers will race US Legend Cars during the Cook Out Summer Shootout Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway on weeknights throughout June and July, bringing their rivalry to American fans in a new format.
The Exciting Introduction to American Legend Car Racing
Van Gisbergen shared images of the cars on social media, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming races.
“Going to have some fun in the legends this summer!”
he wrote. Both will compete under the ‘Team SSR’ name, with Joe Ryan Race Cars managing the vehicles. Remarkably, their cars will feature the same numbers they used in Supercars — No. 97 for van Gisbergen and No. 33 for McLaughlin.
The announcement sparked lively reactions from fellow drivers and fans alike. Daniel Suarez, van Gisbergen’s teammate at Trackhouse Racing, commented,
“I can’t believe you fit in that thing!! I was thinking of a convertible for you mate.”
Young Craftsman Truck Series driver Rajah Caruth also expressed excitement, simply saying, Sick!!!!! Meanwhile, a fan humorously remarked,
“So, we spent all those years watching you two duke it out against each other for yall to team in, *checks notes*, Summer Shootout? Here for it, let me subscribe to the Patreon.”
Decades of Rivalry on the Track
Throughout the 2010s, McLaughlin and van Gisbergen were dominant forces in Supercars, accumulating multiple championships between them. From 2013 to 2020, they faced off in roughly 250 races, with McLaughlin winning 56 and van Gisbergen 37. McLaughlin secured three championships in that timeframe along with the prestigious 2019 Bathurst win. Van Gisbergen, meanwhile, claimed the 2016 championship and triumphed at the 2020 Bathurst.
The debate among industry experts and fans over who stands as the sport’s biggest icon remains unresolved. Their move to race together in the Summer Shootout, a grassroots series serving as a developmental platform for emerging talent, could offer fresh insights into their ongoing rivalry. Notably, NASCAR star Bubba Wallace is among the series’ successful alumni, having returned to compete in 2024 and expected to race again in 2025.
The Future Path for Two Former Supercars Champions
Since relocating to the United States, McLaughlin and van Gisbergen have developed a strong friendship beyond their competitive past. Their participation in the Summer Shootout series offers fans a new chapter to follow as they transition from their Australian careers to American racing circuits. This fresh collaboration promises to add intrigue to their legacy while providing entertainment throughout the coming weeks at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
