Shane Van Gisbergen claimed his third NASCAR Cup Series win of 2025 at Sonoma Raceway, delivering a powerful performance that underscored the evolving potential of this Northern California road course. Driving a commanding race in the Toyota/Save Mart 350, the New Zealand driver led for nearly 90% of the 97 laps, showcasing his skill and setting the stage for what he believes is an exciting future for the track.
Sonoma Raceway recently experienced its first full repaving in 23 years, with over 10,000 tons of material removed and recycled during a 61-day project completed in February 2024. This major track overhaul introduced a fresh surface that created both challenges and opportunities for drivers throughout the race weekend.
Van Gisbergen Predicts Continued Track Improvement Over Time
After the race, Van Gisbergen shared an optimistic outlook for the track’s development.
Every year this track’s going to get better,
he said.
It’s still great to drive, but as the surface wears away and the edge comes off it a bit, I think it’ll be, you know, even better racetrack.
His perspective is rooted in how road surfaces naturally change with use and weather. Fresh asphalt usually offers high grip but can limit racing lines, often leading to less overtaking. As the surface ages, grooves form and grip changes, which typically enhances racing excitement by creating more passing chances and strategic decisions.
Van Gisbergen noted this evolution was already evident compared to the previous year.
Even compared to last year, there was so much more tire fall off and probably not the most passing up the front, but at least there was speed differences between tires this year,
he explained, highlighting the earlier differences in tire performance on the new surface.
The soft tire compound added complexity as well.
There was so many marbles. This soft tire leaves so many marbles around the track,
Van Gisbergen pointed out, referring to the rubber debris off the racing line that created tricky conditions, especially during restarts, forcing drivers to carefully navigate these slippery sections.
Red Bull’s Breakthrough and Van Gisbergen’s Rising Championship Bid
Van Gisbergen’s victory also carried historical significance for both himself and his team. It marked Red Bull’s first NASCAR Cup Series win since Kasey Kahne triumphed at Phoenix in 2011, ending a 14-year drought for the team. Additionally, Van Gisbergen extended his road course mastery, becoming the first driver since Jeff Gordon in 1998-99 to win three consecutive road course races from the pole position.
This triumph propelled Van Gisbergen to third place in the playoff standings, earning 17 playoff points and establishing him as a genuine contender for the championship. With four Cup Series wins in just 34 starts, he is now the fastest driver to reach that milestone since Parnelli Jones achieved it in 1967, further cementing his rapid rise in the sport.
Implications for Sonoma Raceway and NASCAR’s Future
Van Gisbergen’s insight into how the newly resurfaced Sonoma Raceway will evolve brings a hopeful outlook for fans and drivers eager for more dynamic racing. As the asphalt matures and grip levels vary, the track is expected to offer increasingly exciting and strategic competitions. This, combined with Van Gisbergen’s momentum, signals thrilling times ahead for the NASCAR Cup Series and for Sonoma as a key venue.
With the fresh surface now in place and Van Gisbergen’s championship challenge intensifying, fans can anticipate a captivating season where driver skill and track evolution intersect, potentially defining the future of road racing in NASCAR.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Shane van Gisbergen, Adelaide?
A. Sadly, Van Gisbergen’s last races didn’t go as everyone hoped. On Saturday’s first lap, he hit Will Brown’s car, which had already crashed at Turn 4. The next day, he faced brake problems that stopped him from completing the race.
