Rookie SVG Adds Himself to NASCAR’s Exclusive Drivers Club After Back-to-Back Cup Series Thrillers

New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen is making quite the news on his NASCAR debut. While he’s yet to win a race or pole, his aggressive driving is evident throughout the track. In the Xfinity Series, he has claimed two Top 10 finishes so far and is expected to participate in seven Cup Series races this season. The Kiwi already has two Cup Series starts on his altar; however, the races at COTA and Talladega would probably not be the best for the #97 driver, but he has created a unique record. Wonder what that might be?

Shane van Gisbergen joins the likes of A.J. Foyt and Bob Flock

SVG left the entire NASCAR community wondering after his extraordinary debut last year as he drove past others in a rain-washed Chicago Street race to be the winner of his very first Cup race. Not only this, but the Kiwi dominated the likes of Chase Elliott, Kyle Busch, and others who were aiming for a win.

Last Sunday at Talladega, Shane van Gisbergen achieved the distinction of becoming only the fourth driver in NASCAR Cup Series history to lead laps in three of his first four starts. This feat places him in a select group alongside some of the legendary drivers, like, AJ Foyt, Tommy Kendall, and Bob Flock.

Notably, during the second stage of the race, Shane van Gisbergen took the helm of the No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet and managed to lead the pack three times throughout the 188-lap event. Although he showed strong potential for a win, a lack of fuel on the last lap thwarted his efforts. Although the victory was claimed by Tyler Reddick, SVG ended the race in P26. Though many would argue that it is not necessarily a very big achievement, the record portrays SVG’s undying hunger to achieve greatness.

Kiwi’s NASCAR journey so far

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At the iconic Daytona International Speedway, Shane van Gisbergen made a memorable first appearance. Amidst a tumultuous race with multiple incidents and numerous cautions, he showcased out-of-the-world resilience. Finishing P12, his ability to navigate through adversity and capitalize on the ‘Lucky Dog/Free Pass’ opportunity was proof of his adaptability.

Additionally, the RAPTOR King of Tough 250 race in Atlanta marked a significant milestone for SVG as he clinched a P3 finish. Next, the race at COTA was a highlight for him, as he is trying hard to make his name in the Xfinity Series. SVG led for 20 laps and shared the front with his Kaulig Racing teammate, A.J. Allmendinger. In the gripping final moments during NASCAR Overtime, Shane van Gisbergen took command at the front. Yet, Austin Hill closely pursued, challenging SVG as they ascended the hill to the demanding Turn 1. SVG’s car drifted wide, presenting Hill with the chance to surge ahead, seemingly on track for his third victory of the year.

Despite initially finishing second, officials imposed a 30-second penalty on SVG. This was for taking a shortcut on the final lap, which relegated him to a disappointing P27 finish.

SVG is going to race a few more Cup Series races this season, including the Chicago Street race, which he won last year. Other than this, we can have him in Charlotte, Watkins Glen, Las Vegas, and the return leg of Talladega. Let’s see if he can emerge victorious in any of those. What are your predictions regarding this? Will he clinch his second Cup Series victory this season?