Shane van Gisbergen, known for his success on street courses, enters the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the Chicago Street Course on Saturday with high expectations for another strong finish, but a rising competitor, Connor Zilisch, poses a significant challenge in The Loop 110. The event, set for 4:30 p.m. ET, highlights the developing rivalry and skill on display, fueling anticipation around the Shane van Gisbergen NASCAR Xfinity Chicago race.
Van Gisbergen Comfortable on Challenging Circuit
Although some might expect Shane van Gisbergen to dominate, the intensity of competition in the NASCAR Xfinity Series leaves the outcome far from certain. The New Zealander brings confidence to the 2.2-mile, 12-turn Chicago layout, drawing from his extensive background in Supercars and experience with street circuits.
“It’s just like the tracks I’ve grown up racing on,”
—Shane van Gisbergen, driver
Van Gisbergen notes that street circuits feature prominently in the Supercars calendar, making him well-prepared for the demanding Chicago track. His familiarity with racing closely alongside barriers, and years spent mastering similar circuits in Australia, provide him with a notable advantage.
“It’s similar to a few tracks that I raced in Australia, whereas most of these guys aren’t used to street circuits. Just something I’m comfortable with and have spent many years racing.”
—Shane van Gisbergen, driver
Zilisch Brings Youth and Momentum
Adding to the intrigue, Connor Zilisch, who will soon turn 19, emerges as a significant contender in this high-stakes event. A standout road course specialist, Zilisch already boasts a major win in the Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen. Competing for JR Motorsports in the No. 88 Chevrolet, he has secured three poles and two victories in just three road course starts, showcasing remarkable adaptability and speed, particularly with a win earlier this season at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Friendly Rivalry Promises Excitement
Zilisch expresses respect for van Gisbergen, recognizing the match-up as an opportunity to test his skills against an experienced champion, while also acknowledging the friendly nature of their relationship. Despite not having raced head-to-head with van Gisbergen before, Zilisch welcomes the challenge of competing in equal machinery.
“SVG and I are good buddies,”
—Connor Zilisch, driver
“I’ve never really had the opportunity to race head-to-head with him. We’re going to be in the same cars, so it’s going to be up to the driver.”
—Connor Zilisch, driver
The Chicago street race represents an environment where both drivers can leverage their strengths, with Zilisch’s previous victories on street courses in Mazda MX-5 Cup potentially helping level the playing field.
“It’s a track that Shane has a little more experience on, but I love street courses. I’ve won races on street courses (in Mazda MX-5 Cup), so hopefully I can pick up Chicago quickly and have a shot at it.”
—Connor Zilisch, driver
Anticipation Builds for Chicago Showdown
With the spotlight on Shane van Gisbergen’s bid for back-to-back victories and Connor Zilisch’s rapid rise in the series, the Chicago Street Course race promises an engaging duel between talent and experience. The event stands as a significant test for both established and emerging drivers in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, with fans and teams closely watching how this balance will play out in the heart of Chicago.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Shane van Gisbergen quit Supercars?
A. Shane van Gisbergen believes leaving Supercars for NASCAR was the right choice for him.
After spending 15 years racing in Supercars, he is now racing full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing this year.
Q. Why did Shane van Gisbergen leave Supercars?
A. I am stepping away from V8 Supercars for personal reasons that I prefer not to share.
I plan to return to New Zealand, but I have not decided what I will do next.
