Trackhouse Racing Announces Shane van Gisbergen as Full-Time Cup Series Driver for 2025
Trackhouse Racing made a major announcement on Saturday, revealing that New Zealand native Shane van Gisbergen will pilot the iconic No. 88 Chevrolet full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series starting in 2025. The No. 88 car, known for its rich history and association with legendary drivers like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Dale Jarrett, and Darrell Waltrip, will be a formidable force under the guidance of van Gisbergen, who aims to add a new chapter to its legacy. Adding to the intrigue of this move, Trackhouse owner Justin Marks revealed he consulted with both Earnhardt and Hendrick Motorsports before reviving the No. 88 car, receiving their blessings. This makes Trackhouse the sixth NASCAR team with at least three full-time Cup Series charters for the upcoming season.
Key Takeaways:
- Shane van Gisbergen, a renowned driver from New Zealand, will join the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025, racing for Trackhouse Racing in the No. 88 Chevrolet.
- The No. 88 car, steeped in NASCAR history and previously driven by iconic figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Dale Jarrett, and Darrell Waltrip, will be piloted by van Gisbergen.
- Van Gisbergen’s move to the Cup Series comes after a successful stint in the Xfinity Series, where he boasts three wins this season.
- Trackhouse Racing has expanded to three Cup Series teams, solidifying its position as a major force in NASCAR.
Shane van Gisbergen Ready for the Full-Time Cup Series Challenge
Trackhouse owner Justin Marks expressed his excitement about van Gisbergen joining the team, recognizing it as a significant step forward for both Trackhouse and the driver.
“This is a big day in so many ways for Trackhouse Racing, Shane, Chevrolet, and race fans around the world,” Marks stated. “This is an important step for our organization and it’s a credit to the men and women at Trackhouse Racing whose hard work and success the last few years has led to us expanding to three Cup teams in 2025.”
He further emphasized the significance of van Gisbergen’s journey, highlighting the driver’s commitment to Trackhouse and his determination to compete in the highly competitive NASCAR Cup Series.
“It’s also a big step up for Shane who took a chance on Trackhouse Racing, moved here from New Zealand and now joins the most competitive stock car racing series in the world. Everyone will get to watch one of the world’s racing superstars compete in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.”
Van Gisbergen’s Journey to NASCAR: From New Zealand to the Cup Series
Van Gisbergen, at 35 years old, is embarking on this new chapter in his racing career less than two years after signing a developmental deal with Trackhouse. His impressive debut in the Cup Series at the Chicago Street Race last year, where he took home the win, solidified his potential in the world of stock car racing.
He’s actively participated in the Xfinity Series this season, driving for Kaulig Racing in partnership with Trackhouse. He stands out as the only driver in the series with three wins (Portland, Sonoma, and Chicago), currently holding 12th place in the points standings. His previous Cup Series appearances this year, including a best finish of P20 at COTA in March, have proven his adaptability and readiness for the challenges ahead.
Van Gisbergen’s determination and confidence in his abilities are evident in his own words:
“This is what I have planned for and I am ready,” van Gisbergen said. “I know there is a tough learning curve ahead, but the best way to learn is to go out and do it. Feel I have made progress running the Xfinity Series this year with Kaulig Racing and I can’t thank everyone there enough. I look forward to the Cup Series. Those drivers and teams are the best in the world and it will be an honor to be part of their races.”
The No. 88 Car: A Legacy of Champions and a New Chapter
The No. 88 car holds a prestigious place in NASCAR history. It has been driven by some of the most iconic figures in the sport, including:
Dale Earnhardt Jr.: Known as one of the most popular drivers of all time, Earnhardt Jr. successfully piloted the No. 88 car for a significant period, leaving a lasting impact on its legacy.
Dale Jarrett: A NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jarrett achieved remarkable success behind the wheel of the No. 88 car, including a Daytona 500 victory.
- Darrell Waltrip: Another NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Waltrip’s contributions to the sport as a driver and commentator have cemented his place amongst legendary figures, and his time driving the No. 88 car added to its illustrious history.
Now, with van Gisbergen taking the reins of the No. 88 car, it will be exciting to see how he will contribute to its legacy. This move represents a significant investment by Trackhouse Racing, a commitment to building a strong team, and a testament to van Gisbergen’s potential. His racing journey in the Cup Series is sure to be closely followed, as he aims to make his mark on NASCAR’s most prestigious stage.
