NASCAR is running on the streets of Chicago for the very first time this year, and the three-time Australian Supercars champion will be joining them.
Van Gisbergen will pilot the No. 91 Trackhouse Racing team entry with sponsorship from Enhance Health. Quad Lock will serve as an associate sponsor on the Chevrolet Camaro.
Champion in 2016, 2021, and 2022, Van Gisbergen is already one of the most successful racers in Supercars history. He is already ranked fourth on the all-time wins and won the prestigious Bathurst 1000 in both 2020 and 2022 with co-driver Garth Tander.
“I can honestly say I have dreamed about an opportunity in NASCAR, but really never thought it would become a reality,” said van Gisbergen, a native of New Zealand. “I can’t wait to get to the States to meet everyone and prepare for Chicago. It’s NASCAR’s first time on the streets of Chicago so in some ways everyone will be a rookie like me, but I don’t underestimate that it’s going to be a huge challenge.”
Trackhouse’s Project 91 program, which aims to bring international racing stars to NASCAR, debuted last year with former Formula 1 Kimi Raikkonen at Watkins Glen. Raikkonen drove the car again earlier this year at COTA.
Two of Trackhouse’s three victories in 2022 came at road courses with Ross Chastain winning at COTA and Daniel Suarez taking victory at Sonoma Raceway.
Veteran crew chief Darian Grubb will be on the pit box for Van Gisbergen. He has 23 Cup wins to his credit and won the 2011 Cup title with Tony Stewart.
“We have been very pleased with the fan reaction to Kimi’s participation the last two seasons,” said Marks in a release from the team. “I’ll concede the American racing fan might not be as familiar with Shane as they are with Kimi but if you talk with anyone in Australia, New Zealand and that part of the world they will tell you he is one of the most talented drivers on the planet. He’s used to street racing in heavy cars and I think everyone will be very impressed with his performance.”
The 34-year-old will be with the team during the Nashville race weekend on June 25, and spend the following week at the shop preparing for Chicago.
“There is so much I have to learn about these cars and how the races are run,” said van Gisbergen. “The learning curve will be quite steep, but I am ready for everything they will throw at me. I know a lot of Kiwi’s and Aussies will be watching and I’m honored to get this opportunity.”