New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen has signaled a possible return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as he continues to broaden his presence within NASCAR. Following his recent victory at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), van Gisbergen expressed a clear desire to test himself in the truck division, indicating this as his next step in American motorsports.
Growing NASCAR Success Spurs Interest in Truck Series Challenge
Having accumulated 11 wins across the NASCAR Cup Series and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, van Gisbergen has firmly established himself as a versatile competitor in road racing. Yet, he remains eager to tackle the distinct challenges presented by the Truck Series.
I would love to drive one of those trucks,
van Gisbergen said after his COTA triumph.
I think maybe it’s Watkins or something later in the year is free, so I’m trying. But it’s hard to do. Everything costs money, I guess. But yeah, love to do more Truck starts.
Previous Truck Series Experience and Transition to Oval Racing
Van Gisbergen is not unfamiliar with the Truck Series. After his remarkable win at the 2023 Chicago Street Race, he made a start with Niece Motorsports at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, piloting the No. 41 Chevrolet Silverado. That race marked his initial exposure to oval racing, where he finished 19th, gaining valuable experience despite the unfamiliar format.
Since then, his focus shifted toward solidifying his NASCAR career. He completed a full season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, claiming three victories before advancing to the Cup Series in 2025. In just one season, he has added five wins to his resume, demonstrating rapid growth and adaptability within NASCAR’s top tier.
Motivation Behind Wanting More Truck Series Starts
Van Gisbergen’s ambition to return to the Truck Series stems from his dedication to continuous improvement rather than simply accumulating appearances. He views competing in trucks as an opportunity to refine his driving skills through exposure to different vehicle dynamics and race formats, particularly those emphasized on oval tracks.
Even things like today, the track, the cars are so different, but it’s so worthwhile,
he remarked after his COTA win.
I learned a lot today and tried a whole bunch of techniques, and I really hope it will help me tomorrow. So yeah, I’d love to get in a truck, and I think it’ll make me a better driver.
Challenges in Scheduling and Funding for Truck Series Participation
While van Gisbergen is eager to compete more in trucks, practical challenges remain. Balancing commitments with Trackhouse Racing in the full Cup season and select O’Reilly Series races limits available opportunities. Additionally, funding and sponsorship logistics complicate securing a truck ride.
He indicated Watkins Glen as a potential event where he could participate, leveraging his road course strengths similar to those displayed at COTA. However, van Gisbergen acknowledged that making arrangements for such starts involves overcoming financial and scheduling obstacles.
Prospects for Future Truck Series Engagement and Impact on NASCAR Career
Shane van Gisbergen’s growth trajectory reflects a driver willing to push beyond comfort zones to become more complete. His transition from a breakthrough street course win in 2023 to a strong Cup Series contender highlights his adaptability and hunger for improvement. Adding Truck Series competition fits this pattern, offering a platform to expand his expertise, especially on ovals where he has limited race experience.
Should he secure the resources and means to participate regularly, van Gisbergen’s return to the Truck Series could further elevate his competitive edge and influence within NASCAR. Fans and analysts alike can expect him to contend at the front once he reenters the truck circuit, continuing his ascent in American motorsport.
