Just days before the highly anticipated Chicago Street Race, NASCAR finds itself in hot water following a shocking and brutally honest statement from rising star Shane van Gisbergen (SVG). The New Zealand native, who stunned the motorsports world with his historic Cup Series debut win last year on the streets of Chicago, has once again captured headlines—but this time for reasons that may spell major trouble for NASCAR’s image and internal structure.
In a candid media session ahead of this weekend’s event, SVG pulled no punches. “I didn’t come to NASCAR to play politics,” he said bluntly. “There’s too much behind-the-scenes manipulation, and it’s honestly draining. If this keeps up, I’m not sure how long I’ll stay.”
The comments immediately sent shockwaves across the racing community. Known for his cool-headedness and professionalism in Supercars, SVG’s strong words suggest mounting frustration with NASCAR’s internal operations—particularly regarding team politics, technical inconsistencies, and what he described as “a lack of transparency in race control decisions.”
SVG did not elaborate on specific individuals or teams, but insiders believe his comments were in reference to recent questionable penalties, uneven officiating, and backroom favoritism that have caused growing unrest among several drivers. His statement comes just weeks after multiple teams quietly raised concerns about the way car inspections and mid-race reviews have been handled in recent races.
While NASCAR has not issued an official response, a spokesperson did comment that “all drivers are encouraged to voice their opinions, but we remain committed to fairness, integrity, and open dialogue.” Behind closed doors, however, sources suggest the league is scrambling to control the narrative before it spirals further, especially with one of its newest international stars going public with such direct criticism.
SVG’s remarks could not have come at a worse time. The Chicago Street Race is a marquee event aimed at attracting new fans to NASCAR’s evolving urban format and global appeal. With eyes around the world watching, controversy off the track is the last thing the league needs.
Fans are split on social media. Some applaud SVG for his honesty and bravery in calling out what many see as long-standing issues within NASCAR. “He’s saying what others are too afraid to say,” one fan tweeted. Others argue that airing grievances so publicly, especially as a relatively new face in the Cup Series, could harm his standing and overshadow the race itself.
Veteran drivers have remained quiet, at least for now, though a few have hinted in the past at similar frustrations. SVG’s statement could be the spark that prompts a broader discussion within the sport—one that NASCAR can no longer afford to ignore.
With tensions rising and scrutiny intensifying, all eyes now turn to Chicago. Will SVG back up his words with another breakout performance? Or will this drama create a distraction too big to overcome?
One thing is certain: NASCAR’s problems just got a lot bigger, and Shane van Gisbergen is no longer holding back.
