When a newcomer enters the world of NASCAR and makes an astonishing debut, it not only turns heads but also raises intriguing questions. Shane van Gisbergen, the Australian V8 Supercars champion, achieved just that with his remarkable performance at the inaugural street race in Chicago. His debut was nothing short of spectacular. And it recently prompted one of Hendrick Motorsports‘ star drivers to share his candid thoughts on SVG’s achievement.

Shane van Gisbergen’s journey into the NASCAR world began when Justin Marks, the team owner of Trackhouse Racing, reached out to him. This invitation ignited SVG’s interest in the NASCAR Cup Series. He immersed himself in studying the races, the drivers, and the cars, preparing for a significant transition. And he turned out to be a rather remarkable student of the sport.

Hendrick Motorsports star makes a candid admission on SVG beating the Cup drivers on his debut

It’s no exaggeration to say that SVG beat all the expectations on his NASCAR debut. He made his Cup Series debut in a thrilling fashion on the rain-soaked streets of downtown Chicago. In a race filled with drama, he showcased his exceptional skills, chasing down seasoned competitors like Justin Haley and Chase Elliott in a memorable finish.

After passing Elliott, SVG engaged in an exhilarating duel with Haley in the final laps, ultimately securing the victory. SVG reflected on the race, saying, “The racing, the battles were really fun. But everyone was respectful and clean. It was really cool.”

What makes SVG’s achievement even more remarkable is the fact that he became the first driver in over six decades to win his Cup Series debut. A feat not witnessed since Johnny Rutherford’s win in 1963. Driving the No. 91 Chevrolet as part of Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91, SVG made history and added his name to the list of international drivers who have triumphed in the NASCAR Cup Series.

As SVG made his mark in NASCAR, he was supported by experienced hands, including crew chief Darian Grubb, who had previously guided Tony Stewart to a Cup Series championship in 2011.

During a recent YouTube clip shared by NASCAR, Steve Letarte asked William Byron about SVG’s win. “What was your opinion on SVG winning?” William Byron couldn’t help but admit, “It’s a little embarrassing! No, it was amazing what he did. I mean, I think that was it shows that our car is universal and what I like is now it’s bringing those guys in internationally and they feel like they can be competitive.”

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However, this is only the beginning for SVG in the NASCAR world. He is coming back in the next season with Justin Marks and Trackhouse Racing.

SVG will race full-time in NASCAR next season, albeit not the way many would have thought

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Trackhouse Racing recently announced that Shane van Gisbergen will be joining their team for the 2024 season. SVG’s association with Trackhouse Racing began with Project 91. And his dazzling debut has paved the way for a more extensive partnership.

SVG’s 2024 racing schedule will encompass a combination of NASCAR’s three national series?Cup, Xfinity, and Craftsman Truck Series. Additionally, he will participate in some late model and other races, providing him with a diverse set of experiences in NASCAR.

According to NASCAR.com, Justin Marks spoke about the upcoming challenges for SVG. He stated, “This is going to be a tremendous challenge for Shane. But he is a tremendous driver, as we have all seen. Next year will be about getting him acclimated to oval-track racing, superspeedways, 1.5-mile tracks, and everything he has never experienced in his career. It’s obviously going to be a learning process, but we think Shane will perform quite well.”

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What are your thoughts on SVG’s NASCAR debut and his future with Trackhouse Racing? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below.