Supercars Star Shane van Gisbergen Unwinds Massive Cultural and Technological Shift With His NASCAR Move
The Supercars champ and NASCAR rookie Shane van Gisbergen faced his first DNF at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway last race. After 3 races down in the Xfinity Series Schedule, the Kaulig Racing driver now sits at position 16th in the Xfinity Series Standings.
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The New Zealand native came into the NASCAR world last season. SVG premiered in the Chicago Street Race and won on his debut, setting a new benchmark in NASCAR history. With his debut win, he became the first New Zealander to win a race in the Cup Series.
The American racing community highly appreciates SVGās shift to NASCAR. Shane van Gisbergenās rising popularity has earned him spots on popular podcast shows like Stacking Pennies and Dale Jr. Download. However, his recent appearance with the legend Kevin Harvick in the Happy Hour podcast has revealed a lot about his understanding and perspective on the American racing style.
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From Kiwi Tracks to American Ovals: Shane van Gisbergen Analyzes Australian vs. American RacingIn a recent episode of Kevin Harvickās Happy Hour Podcast, Shane van Gisbergen joined for an enlightening chat about his shift from Supercars to NASCAR. Kevin Harvick kicked off the conversation by delving into the differences between racing cultures in Australia/New Zealand, and the United States. He highlighted the more open and collaborative nature of teams down below compared to the secrecy often found in Europe.
SVG chimed in, reminiscing about his early days at Triple Eight Racing, where he experienced firsthand the shift towards a more team-oriented approach. āAt first, it was Stone Brothers,ā he recalled. āWe all sort of did our own thing, kept a lot within ourselves.ā But with Triple Eight, everything changed. āThe team worked much better together,ā SVG explained, āYou gotta be everyone else before you focus on your own teammates and beating them.ā
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As the conversation delved into the realm of technology, Shane van Gisbergen expressed his astonishment at NASCARās extensive reliance on simulation and data analysis. āAnd thatās blown me away here, especially with no practice. How much they rely on the simulation here and what you see.ā he elaborated, emphasizing the crucial role of simulation. SVG went on to highlight the hidden marvels behind the scenes, noting, āItās unbelievable, the level of technology here, which is a shame, itās kind of hidden. The fan doesnāt get to see it, but yeah, itās very, very impressive. The tech here.ā
Kevin Harvick echoed Shane van Gisbergenās sentiments, underscoring the sophistication of NASCARās tech centers and war rooms. He said, āI think about it when a lot of people, theyĀ watch an F1 race and theyāre like, oh my gosh, I canāt, I canāt believe the technology and everything thatās happening, and theyāre putting numbers and different things all over the place. And then people like you come in here for the first time and are blown away,ā stated Kevin. āThe tech centers that all the manufacturers have and the war room that people haveā¦watching the race and figuring out everything thatās going on.āĀ
As the discussion continued, SVG reflected on his ongoing awe at the intricacies of NASCAR technology. āIām still blown away by it,ā he admitted, highlighting the ongoing learning process in his NASCAR journey.
SVGās Reflections on His Early Exit at Las VegasTrending
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In a chat with FrontStretch, Shane van Gisbergen shared insights on his shortened stint at Las Vegas Speedway. On being asked what broke in the car, SVG candidly replied, āSomething in the engine, we dropped a cylinder.ā Reflecting on the missed opportunity, SVG expressed disappointment, saying, āJust starting to get rolling and feel what it was likeā¦ Shame we didnāt get the focused Health Chevy further up.āĀ
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Despite the setback, he acknowledged the value of the laps he managed, stating, āIt was goodā¦ just trying to get comfortable, get a rhythm, learn how it all works.ā While disappointed, SVG remained optimistic, noting, āI just needed to be out there doing more laps so thatās a shame but thereās another race next week.ā
Regardless of failures, SVG maintains a cool demeanor and an optimistic approach, displaying dedication and determination as he explores NASCAR.
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Supercars Star Shane van Gisbergenās Talladega Nights Verdict Divides the NASCAR
Fandom
Amidst cultural and technological shifts, Shane van Gisbergen remains unfazed, drawing comparisons between Australian and American racing landscapes. His adaptability and professionalism shine through, showcasing why heās not just a Supercars champion but a promising contender in NASCAR.
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