Since his impressive victory in the NASCAR Cup Series at the beginning of this month, the possibility of the three-time Supercars champion leaving Australia at the conclusion of this season has been increasing.
If it’s a code or if it’s a math formula, say “I cannot reword”:
He has a contractual agreement with Triple Eight in Supercars for the upcoming year, however, the team has made it clear that they are willing to let him go if necessary.
An early exit is now all but a certainty, van Gisbergen confirming to media in Sydney this evening that he is on the hunt for a NASCAR programme next year.
When asked if it will be a full-time deal he said it wasn’t sure, although that appeared to be reference to a full Cup programme.
He subsequently made it clear that there are no intentions to merge Supercars and NASCAR in the upcoming year.
According to van Gisbergen, his current focus is on helping Triple Eight secure a suitable replacement.
“He mentioned that there is a significant amount of activity occurring behind the scenes.”
I am not departing due to this team. I have great affection for this team, and upon my departure, I desire to ensure that there is a capable individual ready to take my place and perform excellently in the automobile.
I want to ensure that the team doesn’t end up in a difficult situation, desperately searching for a replacement. My intention is to depart while the team is in a favorable position. Hopefully, the team will find a suitable replacement promptly.
Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing, Enhance Health Chevrolet Camaro
Photo by: Nigel Kinrade / NKP / Motorsport Images
Opening up on how his 2024 may look, van Gisbergen hinted at the lower rungs on the NASCAR ladder as he acclimatises to oval racing.
“When I study it, Marcos [Ambrose] did three years before he went to Cup full-time. [Juan Pablo] Montoya was pretty much a full season as well. Nobody has ever gone into Cup.
“I am fully aware that those ovals will not be simple. It will require a significant amount of time to master them. I do not currently have a strategy; I hope to figure it out once I am in that situation.”
The previous statement alludes to an upcoming second race in the Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing at Indianapolis in the following month.
Mark Dutton, the team manager of Triple Eight, stated that they will not attempt to pressure van Gisbergen into staying.
“He said that Shane is a member of our team and we definitely want him to continue with us. However, we would never consider using manipulation or any other tactics to prevent him from taking this next opportunity.”
“This is not leaving down pitlane. This is not going to the opposition. This is an amazing opportunity and whichever way it goes, we’ll be totally supporting.”
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