Shane van Gisbergen has once again asserted his dominance on the streets of Chicago, clinching victory in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Grant Park 165. This win marks his second Cup Series triumph of the season and his third career victory, all achieved on street circuits. The New Zealander’s performance over the weekend was nothing short of stellar, as he also secured a win in the Xfinity Series race, completing a rare weekend sweep from pole position in both events.
Van Gisbergen’s affinity for the Chicago Street Course is well-documented. In 2023, he made headlines by winning the inaugural Cup Series race in Chicago during his debut, becoming the first driver in nearly 60 years to win in his first Cup start . His latest victory solidifies his status as a formidable force on street circuits and underscores his seamless transition from Australian Supercars to NASCAR.
The race was not without its challenges. Early on, van Gisbergen reported tire pressure issues, stating, “I need more air in the tyres. The tyres are flat, particularly the rears.” Despite these concerns, he managed to navigate through the field with precision. A pivotal moment came on Lap 60 when he overtook Chase Briscoe for the lead, showcasing his adeptness in high-pressure situations .
The final laps were tense, with a caution triggered by Cody Ware’s crash. However, van Gisbergen had already crossed the start/finish line to begin the final lap, allowing the race to conclude under caution with him in the lead. Reflecting on the weekend, he remarked, “What an amazing weekend for me. I’m a lucky guy to drive some great cars. I have to thank Trackhouse, WeatherTech, Chevy, and all these guys and girls here”
This victory not only adds to van Gisbergen’s impressive resume but also positions him as a strong contender in the ongoing NASCAR season. His performance continues to captivate fans and exemplify the global talent present in the sport.
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