Overview of Shane van Gisbergen’s Performance at COTA
New Zealand native Shane van Gisbergen, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet Camaro for Trackhouse Racing, delivered an impressive performance at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), capturing the admiration of fans and competitors alike. Starting from the sixth position, van Gisbergen showcased his road course expertise, which has been well-regarded since his victory on the streets of Chicago two years ago.
Scoring and Stage Results
At the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, van Gisbergen’s skill was on full display. He finished third in the first stage, earning eight points, and secured an additional six points with a fifth place finish in the second stage. Throughout the race, he was a strong contender, battling for the lead against seasoned racers like Kyle Busch and AJ Allmendinger.
Recognition from Peers and Commentary
Before the race, expectations were high for van Gisbergen. AJ Allmendinger, who drove the No. 16 Chevrolet Camaro for Kaulig Racing, even noted van Gisbergen as his favorite to win. Other drivers also expressed respect for his road racing capabilities, hinting at the New Zealander's adept handling and strategic maneuvering on track.
Challenges in the Rookie Season
Despite his success at COTA, van Gisbergen has endured a challenging rookie season in NASCAR. His positions in previous races included a 33rd place finish at the Daytona 500 and a 23rd at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, ranking him 34th in the overall standings before the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix.
Corey LaJoie's Humorous Admiration for Van Gisbergen
Adding a lighter note to the competitive atmosphere, former NASCAR Cup Series competitor Corey LaJoie humorously expressed his admiration for Shane van Gisbergen's technique, specifically noting his footwork. LaJoie even joked about being willing to purchase an OnlyFans subscription just to watch van Gisbergen's footwork as he navigated the demanding road course.
