The Kiwi is embarking on a complete transition to the NASCAR system, scheduled to take place next year.
This weekend, he will have two opportunities to compete in the United States. Firstly, he will participate in the Truck Series at Indianapolis Raceway Park later today (local time). Then, on Sunday, he will make a second appearance in the Cup Series at the Indianapolis road course.
In the run-up to those races, van Gisbergen suggested that Supercars currently lack enjoyment.
The champion who has won the series three times has consistently expressed his disapproval of the new Gen3 cars. He believes that these cars restrict driver involvement and place a greater emphasis on vehicle configuration.
He elaborated on those ideas during his appearance on the most recent episode of the Dale Jr Download podcast.
“I’ve been facing some challenges [in Supercars] with the current state of the series,” van Gisbergen expressed to host Dale Earnhardt Jr. “It’s not as pleasurable.”
“It’s just the new car and stuff, and there’s so much background…
“They made alterations to the car, introducing an entirely fresh chassis and concept. However, everyone remains unchanged, with identical components.”
The qualification process is impressive, but the actual race is disappointing. It lacks excitement and becomes monotonous. You are driving cautiously at only 30 percent of your capabilities to preserve the tires, while everyone else is simply trailing behind one another.
The car is equipped with identical components and has a limited range of adjustments. Essentially, everyone is using the same configuration. Additionally, there is a requirement for a minimum tire pressure of 17 pounds per square inch (psi). As a result, all drivers start with the same pressure, allowing them to drive at a consistent speed.
The tire bursts due to excessive running pressure, while everyone simply trails behind one another.
“It’s incredibly monotonous. I arrived at NASCAR and the race is constantly fast-paced, with drivers giving their all. That’s what I find exhilarating.”
Van Gisbergen acknowledged that the Gen3 platform will progress in the future. However, he believes that now is the opportune moment to transition to the Stateside switch, following two years of dominance in the Gen2 era.
He mentioned that at its core, the car is impressive, but it requires both time and modifications.
“I am uncertain when it will happen, but after experiencing a significant peak in your career, now might be an opportune moment to consider making a change.”
Van Gisbergen further disclosed that, although he still had one year remaining on his Triple Eight contract, the team ownership group expressed support for him to pursue NASCAR in the upcoming year following his unexpected victory in Chicago.
He expressed admiration for my team, stating that all the bosses, including the main one who messaged me after the [Chicago] race, urged me to be present there in the upcoming year.
“They display complete support, which is remarkable. However, there must be another individual to occupy the position.”
The driver who will be taking the drive today for Erebus is Will Brown, as confirmed by the team granting him an early exit from his contract.
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