Shane van Gisbergen Triumphs in Historic NASCAR Cup Victory at Mexico City
In a remarkable display of skill, three-time Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen dominated the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, securing victory by a staggering 16.567 seconds. This marks the largest margin of victory in a Cup race since 2009 and the most significant win at a road course in over 45 years.
Van Gisbergen led 60 of the 100 laps, illustrating his prowess in challenging conditions. Prior to the race, he consulted fellow Red Bull athlete Max Verstappen for insight on racing lines in potential wet conditions, showcasing an analytical approach to competitive strategy. “I just look for every advantage I can,” van Gisbergen noted in a post-race press conference. “It was amazing how slick it was out there… I reached out to [Verstappen] for a leg up.”
Upon the race’s commencement, the anticipated rain arrived, complicating matters for many drivers while van Gisbergen maintained an exceptional pace. This victory not only secures his spot in the NASCAR Cup playoffs but also positions him favorably for the Rookie of the Year title, barring any wins from fellow contender Riley Herbst before the season concludes.
Van Gisbergen’s performance continues to illustrate his adaptability and competitiveness in the NASCAR landscape, further elevating expectations for his rookie season.
