Dale Earnhardt Jr Backs the Three-Time Champion As He Takes a Chapter Out of Another Australian Veteran’s Book

Motorsport enthusiasts worldwide are excited as a legendary NASCAR figure throws his weight behind a rising star from the V8 Supercars circuit. In a recent episode of the popular ‘Dale Jr Download’ podcast, Dale Earnhardt Jr expressed his astonishment at a three-time V8 Supercar champion’s decision to pursue a full-time NASCAR career in 2024. This unexpected move has set the stage for an electrifying chapter in motorsports.

While his accomplishments on road courses have been nothing short of awe-inspiring, the prospect of transitioning to traditional oval tracks in NASCAR has left some wondering about his adaptability. However, Earnhardt Jr believes Shane Van Gisbergen’s potential is immense, drawing parallels to another Australian veteran’s successful journey to NASCAR glory.

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During the podcast, Earnhardt Jr and his co-host, Mike Davis, discussed the potential challenges van Gisbergen may face in NASCAR due to his lack of experience on oval tracks. While acknowledging his remarkable success on road courses, they questioned how he would fare on traditional ovals. JR Motorsports owner shared his belief that van Gisbergen already has plans and potential teams for his NASCAR venture. He suggested that the Chicago race driver might spend time racing in the Xfinity Series or a truck to gain valuable oval track experience before leaping to the highest level of NASCAR competition.

Drawing parallels, Junior stated, “Marcos Ambrose is the perfect example of coming out of V8 Supercars. Listen, the V8 Supercar was the closest thing to NASCAR stock cars around the globe and that got even closer when the next Gen. car was built. NASCAR and Steve O’Donnell will tell you they built the NASCAR next Gen. based off of the V8 Supercar. So for Shane and anyone to get in that car and feel comfortable makes perfect sense.” 

Earnhardt Jr emphasized that racing in the Truck Series or Xfinity Series on ovals would be crucial for van Gisbergen’s development. By gaining experience on these tracks, he could increase his chances of success in the top-tier NASCAR Cup Series.

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But wait, that’s not all! The racing sensation from Australia, who left the American crowd breathless with his triumphant debut in the Cup Series last month, is about to take on an entirely new challenge – the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

From Down Under to Indy: Van Gisbergen’s Dazzling Debut in the NASCAR Truck Series

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An exclusive announcement by Trackhouse Racing revealed that van Gisbergen will make a dazzling cameo appearance with Niece Motorsports at the Indianapolis Raceway Park oval. Mark your calendars for August 11, as the action-packed show will begin.

“I’ve seen the trucks race on television and know it’s very competitive,” confessed the 34-year-old Kiwi in a statement from the team. “I’ll have a lot to learn on a short track at IRP. I’m used to doing doubleheaders in Supercars, but this will be a little bit different. I’m honored to join Niece Motorsports and thrilled at getting a chance to climb in a truck.”

And the thrill of this endeavor is shared by Niece Motorsports General Manager Cody Efaw, who couldn’t contain his excitement when announcing van Gisbergen’s one-off recruitment. “We are so excited and so honored to have Shane drive for us at IRP,” said Efaw with a glint of anticipation in his eyes. “He’s a legend in Australia and New Zealand, but what he did at Chicago has everyone in America talking about his talent. We will help him experience oval racing, and I am guessing we will learn a lot from him as well.”

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The anticipation for van Gisbergen’s NASCAR return is building, and the motorsport world eagerly awaits the spectacle at Indianapolis Raceway Park. The pressure is undeniable, and the stakes are higher than ever for the Kiwi driver. Only time will tell if Shane van Gisbergen can seize this opportunity and successfully transition to NASCAR, proving that he is more than just a one-discipline wonder.