Van Gisbergen to drive in NASCAR

The Kiwi Supercar ace is turning his hand to NASCAR, albeit just for a single race for now.

May 19, 2023

Shane van Gisbergen will have the opportunity to channel his inner Ricky Bobby and steer a NASCAR racecar in July when he joins respected Trackhouse Racing for a one-off drive at the Chicago “Race of the Streets” event.

And while it’ll be the Kiwi Supercar ace’s first time racing NASCAR, he’s chosen a good event to debut at. This will be the fist NASCAR street event at Chicago, so it’ll be a level playing field in terms of track layout.

“I can honestly say I have dreamed about an opportunity in Nascar, but really never thought it would become a reality,” van Gisbergen said.

“I can’t wait to get to the States to meet everyone and prepare for Chicago. It’s Nascar’s first time on the streets of Chicago so in some ways everyone will be a rookie like me, but I don’t underestimate that it’s going to be a huge challenge.”

“Van Gisbergen has forged a reputation to drive almost anything, fast. And he is able to grasp most forms of motorsport very quickly. We’re picking NASCAR will be right up his alley.

The event will mark van Gisbergen’s first NASCAR race and the third for Trackhouse’s PROJECT91 car after appearances by 2007 Formula One World Champion Kimi Räikkönen at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International in 2022 and at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas in March.

Another Formula 1 Champion, Jenson Button, will also be competing in the event as part of a multi-race deal with Rick Ware Racing.

Trackhouse Owner and Founder Justin Marks created PROJECT91 last year intent on expanding the organization’s global reach by fielding a Cup Series entry for renowned international racing drivers.

“We have been very pleased with the fan reaction to Kimi’s participation the last two seasons,” said Marks.

“I’ll concede the American racing fan might not be as familiar with Shane as they are with Kimi but if you talk with anyone in Australia, New Zealand and that part of the world they will tell you he is one of the most talented drivers on the planet. He’s used to street racing in heavy cars and I think everyone will be very impressed with his performance.”

SVG will take to the track in Chicago on the 2 July (USA Time)