UPDATE: NASCAR Cup Series driver Shane van Gisbergen faces elimination from the playoffs after a disappointing performance at Bristol that saw him spin out twice, ending his hopes for the 2025 title. With his exit confirmed, van Gisbergen joins fellow drivers Josh Berry, Alex Bowman, and Austin Dillon out of championship contention.
In his inaugural Cup Series season, van Gisbergen initially shined with four wins and a substantial advantage of 22 playoff bonus points. However, the pressure mounted as the race showcased severe tire degradation, prompting Goodyear to provide additional tire sets. Ultimately, van Gisbergen’s missteps on the track left him unable to advance, marking a critical turning point in his championship aspirations.
Speaking shortly after his exit, a visibly frustrated van Gisbergen said,
“Yeah, I’m happy but frustrated. Proud. It’s a privilege to be here but also p***ed at myself. The last few weeks I just haven’t been good enough.”
The 36-year-old driver acknowledged his struggles with understanding the track and tire management, emphasizing the need for improvement as he moves forward.
Despite the setback, van Gisbergen is not finished yet. He remains focused on finishing the season strong, with opportunities still available to secure a top position. If he can finish above eighth place, he could become the first foreign driver to achieve that in the Cup Series.
Teammate Ross Chastain successfully advanced to the Round of 12, and van Gisbergen expressed his commitment to support Chastain’s efforts. “I’ll do everything I can prep-wise, help him study,” he stated, highlighting his dedication to the Trackhouse Racing team.
As the playoffs continue, all eyes will be on van Gisbergen’s journey to recover and contribute to his team’s success. The NASCAR community watches closely as the competition heats up in the coming weeks, with the next race scheduled for August 30, 2025, at the Cook Out Southern 500 in Darlington, South Carolina.
Stay tuned for more updates on Shane van Gisbergen and the evolving NASCAR playoff landscape.