Shane van Gisbergen achieved a significant milestone with his NASCAR Mexico City victory last weekend, highlighting the vital support from Trackhouse Racing. Reflecting on the challenging start of his season, he also humorously expressed relief for not being part of Red Bull’s Formula 1 team.
Early Career Challenges and NASCAR Debut
In 2023, van Gisbergen made an impressive NASCAR Cup Series debut by winning the inaugural Chicago Street Course race while racing for Trackhouse Racing. Previously, in a part-time role with Kaulig Racing, the New Zealand driver had only earned a single podium finish. Despite this promising start, his 2025 NASCAR season began with difficulties. Across the first 15 races, van Gisbergen managed just one top-10 finish, reflecting his relative inexperience with oval tracks.
Breakthrough Victory in Mexico City
Last weekend marked van Gisbergen’s breakthrough as he capitalized on his pole position to secure a win at the inaugural race in Mexico City. The victory was celebrated as a major achievement, especially given the struggles earlier in the season. The full-time Cup Series driver attributed much of his success to the unwavering faith and support from Trackhouse Racing.
Contrast Between Trackhouse Support and Red Bull F1 Treatment
Van Gisbergen’s sponsor, Red Bull, has dealt harshly with its Formula 1 drivers this season, including New Zealander Liam Lawson, who was released after only two races. Reflecting on both his and Lawson’s difficult starts, van Gisbergen delivered a light-hearted jab:
“I’m glad I didn’t drive for Red Bull F1 after how the first few rounds went,”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR Driver
This remark underscored the contrast between van Gisbergen’s experience with strong backing at Trackhouse and the challenges faced by Red Bull’s F1 team.
Gratitude Toward Team Owner Justin Marks
Van Gisbergen praised Trackhouse Racing’s team boss, Justin Marks, for his patient approach during the tough early races:
“[Team boss] Justin [Marks] has been amazing, supporting me and just giving me all the time I need and not putting pressure on [me]. It was really cool.”
—Shane van Gisbergen, NASCAR Driver
This support was critical in helping van Gisbergen find his rhythm and deliver the winning performance in Mexico City.
Playoff Implications and Upcoming Challenges
The Mexico City victory secured van Gisbergen a spot in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs for Trackhouse Racing. Looking ahead, he will compete at Pocono Raceway for the Great American Getaway 400, aiming to improve his current 30th-place standing in the driver rankings. This marks a hopeful turning point in van Gisbergen’s NASCAR career as he adapts and pushes forward in a challenging schedule.
