NASCAR?s Only Undefeated Driver Prepares for Denny Hamlin?s Ultimate Test to Secure His Future

Throughout its 75-year run, NASCAR has seen many drivers attain unmatched fame, even turning into cult icons. While drivers have collected innumerable wins throughout their illustrious careers, every driver has also had to face defeat. But one driver challenges the stereotype, remaining undefeated.

Fueled by NASCAR’s diversity efforts, Shane van Gisbergen arrived at NASCAR?s inaugural Chicago circuit and clinched the win. While his performance at the 2023 Grant Park 220 was nothing short of flawless, the Kiwi is now preparing for an ultimate test by Denny Hamlin in a bid to secure his future at NASCAR?s stables.

Denny Hamlin has an ultimate test for SVG

Posting the fastest lap time in Chicago?s 50-minute practice window, Shane van Gisbergen’s Supercar Championship winning skills were on full display at NASCAR first of its kind street circuit. Driving Trackhouse Racing?s Project 91 Chevy, van Gisbergen defended his lead from Justin Haley during the Grant Park 220?s final laps, securing the win in his NASCAR Cup Series debut.?

Although the Kiwi?s racing prowess was unquestionable, Joe Gibbs Racing?s Denny Hamlin wasn?t fully convinced. With talks of van Gisbergen?s full-time move to NASCAR in 2024 abuzz in the racing community, Hamlin believed that Chicago didn?t paint a clear picture of how the Kiwi would fare on NASCAR?s bread and butter, the oval track.

Standing up to Denny Hamlin?s challenge of the ultimate test, the three-time Supercar Series champion will now make his debut in the Truck Series. Driving the #41 Chevrolet Silverado for Niece Motorsports, Shane van Gisbergen will run his first race on NASCAR?s oval at the Indianapolis Raceway Park come Friday. Paying a visit to Niece Motorsports garage on Monday, van Gisbergen got a first look at his #41 chariot, while also sorting out seat fitment.

But that won?t be the last we see of Shane van Gisbergen this season, as the Kiwi will also compete in the upcoming Cup Series road course race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Familiar with racing on street courses, SVG’s Chicago win was a walk in the park, but the upcoming races in Indiana will be the ultimate test for the Kiwi. While the Truck Series oval is completely uncharted territory for Shane van Gisbergen, the road course would also turn out to be a highly competitive outing given NASCAR drivers? familiarity with the circuit.

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Now in preparation for the challenge that may decide his future as a NASCAR driver, Shane van Gisbergen had a lot to say regarding the upcoming races.

?Certainly be different?: SVG shares his thoughts on the upcoming challenges

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Fully aware of the challenge presented by the Indianapolis Oval and road course, Shane van Gisbergen was also wary of driver aggression as the championship fight intensified with every race. In a media appearance as reported by Motorsports.com, the Project 91 star said, ?I?ve never really thought about ovals too much but I?ve always said I would love to have a go and I guess Friday night I’ll get my shot. It’s going to be a steep learning curve, no doubt. It will certainly be different than the Chicago Street Course.?

Detailing his second run with Trackhouse Racing at Indianapolis? road course, van Gisbergen further added, “I’ll need to get up to speed quickly, but we plan a lot of simulator time, and I know [crew chief] Darian [Grubb] will be thoroughly prepared for Indy. We have got to come in and do our best, but you also have got to race with respect as well. These guys are fighting for their championship every week, so I have got to come in and stay out of trouble.”

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As Shane van Gisbergen gears up for a full-time NASCAR venture, an official announcement of his signing with any team is still awaited. Having brought much fame and success to Trackhouse Racing, will Justin Marks hire the Kiwi for the 2024 season? Stay connected to find out.