NASCAR as a sport is trying to find its footing in the ever-changing motorsports landscape. Gone are the days when Fortune 500 companies lined up to be on race cars. Now, the support from the sponsor comes at a premium. In fact, there have been a fair few companies that have pulled the plug on their association with NASCAR. FedEx, Hooters, GEICO, and M&M’s are the latest ones who have opted to take an exit.

However, in such uncertain times, Trackhouse Racing was able to bring a prominent sponsor back to NASCAR. Red Bull is finally back in the NASCAR Cup Series in the new role of primary sponsor for drivers Shane van Gisbergen and rookie Connor Zilisch. Although it’s just too early to predict how big of an impact Red Bull’s return could have on NASCAR, Justin Marks has made some bold claims. The team owner also expressed his gratitude to the company for putting their trust and faith in their project.

Trackhouse Racing had been in talks with Red Bull for a long time

The Milton-Keynes outfit looks to target a young consumer through its brand activation and marketing strategies. Back in 2011, before they left NASCAR, the Red Bull Racing Team had a hard time sustaining itself financially. They were the main sponsors of their car, and funded both entries; moreover, the financial crisis of 2008 further added to the woes of the team owners. Without a clear roadmap and potential partners, Red Bull’s only option was to leave NASCAR.

But, with a young Trackhouse Racing team and NASCAR’s initiative to target a new audience, Red Bull has come to realize the potential of its brand presence. And this was a calculated move on their part as their thoughts and ideas aligned with Trackhouse Racing. “This is bigger than Trackhouse; this is bigger than Red Bull alone; this is just the big moment for the sport of NASCAR. I mean, it is influential, and it’s a big moment for all of us, for the fans, the team, and the partners that Red Bull’s made a commitment to dive back in; everybody knows they don’t do anything small.” Justin Marks said on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Shane van Gisbergen had already been part of the Red Bull family while competing in the Supercars Series. This partnership resulted in three Australian Supercars championships and 78 race wins. On the other hand, they are associated with Zilisch and signed him after the Xfinity Series win at Watkins Glen last year. So Red Bull understands the importance of this partnership, and going by Marks’ words, this deal was in the making over the last few years.

“It was sort of a slow build-up, but timing… regarding the cars and just where Red Bull is as a company and a lot of things that were happening in the motorsports ecosystem around their partnerships and portfolios. Just kind of lined up perfectly for us to put the deal together, and it is something that I suspect will grow over time. This partnership is going to be really a lot of fun.” Marks added. Well, Trackhouse has certainly kept itself busy this offseason, and slowly but surely, their expansion plans are now coming to light.

Both SVG and Connor Zilisch are excited to work with Red Bull. After all, the Kiwi driver will kick-start his rookie season run with the No. 88 team, and Zilisch will make his Cup debut at COTA.

Trending

1

NASCAR Star Drops Life-Changing Announcement as Racing Community Melts Over Welcome Surprise

2

Kyle Busch Bags Another Deal as $700M Partner Extends More Lifeline After Iconic Sponsor’s Exit

3

Richard Petty’s Tribute to the Late “First Lady of NASCAR” Has Mark Martin Mourning With the Community

4

Richard Petty’s Son Betrays the King’s NASCAR Legacy With Humble Dale Earnhardt Claim

5

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Caught in a Tricky Dilemma After He Sees His Father’s Residues in the Xfinity Series

SVG and Connor Zilisch could have a breakthrough season in 2025

Ever since the Chicago Street Race win in 2023, Shane van Gisgbergen’s NASCAR journey has progressed to new heights. Competing as a rookie in the Xfinity Series, he racked up three wins and made it to the playoffs. And with multiple road course races lined up for this year’s Cup schedule, he will be looking to repeat his past heroics.

SVG will represent Red Bull in five Cup Series races at tracks such as Las Vegas, Sonoma, Iowa, Daytona, and Kansas. A lot of fans will be keeping an eye on the Sonoma event as he could lead Red Bull to their first-ever win since 2011. “I’d love nothing more than to give Red Bull a victory as a way to thank them for joining myself, Connor, and Trackhouse Racing,” SVG said in a press release. SVG’s best chance for this win would be at road courses as that is where he excels. So keep your eyes peeled for that iconic Red Bull livery at Sonoma as it could be the one taking the checkered flag.

Meanwhile, Zilisch wasn’t even aware of plans for his debut run, that too with Red Bull. “I was surprised when they presented me my Red Bull helmet and hat last summer and doubly surprised when they told me I would make my Cup debut in the No. 87 with a Red Bull paint scheme. Red Bull is going to bring a lot more eyes to NASCAR, and I think everyone will win when that happens.” At just 18 years of age, Zilisch is set to become the youngest Cup Series debutant since Joey Logano in 2008 at 18.

Although the likes of JGR, Hendrick, and Penske drivers are expected to dominate, keep an eye out for Trackhouse Racing. They surely have come prepared to contend for race wins and NASCAR glory in 2025.