Shane van Gisbergen to Debut No. 97 in NASCAR Cup Series

Shane van Gisbergen, a celebrated three-time champion of the Supercars series, is set to make his debut in the NASCAR Cup Series next season with a significant twist—he will be driving the No. 97 car. This number holds deep emotional significance for van Gisbergen, and the announcement was made in a heartfelt video shared earlier this month by his team, Trackhouse Racing.

Introduction of the No. 97 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

As part of the preparations for the upcoming season, Trackhouse Racing has unveiled a sneak peek of the No. 97 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which is adorned in the striking colors of Red Bull. This reveal not only highlights van Gisbergen’s car but also introduces the No. 88 Red Bull livery that will be driven by the rising star, Connor Zilisch, who is also part of the Red Bull athlete roster.

The excitement for the new season is palpable, with van Gisbergen set to make his first appearance with the No. 97 at the EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta on February 22. Meanwhile, Zilisch’s inaugural race featuring the Red Bull design will take place just a week earlier during the prestigious Daytona 500. While both cars share a similar design aesthetic, they will feature distinctive color elements—van Gisbergen’s car will incorporate red highlights, whereas Zilisch’s will lean towards blue.

Van Gisbergen’s Connection to the No. 97

The significance of the No. 97 goes beyond just a numeral; it represents a legacy for van Gisbergen and his family. "Having the number No. 97 on my Cup car is incredibly meaningful," he expressed in a team statement. "It’s a number that carries immense importance for my family and me, so to finally see it on my car feels surreal. The red flash designs on both sides of the car are fantastic—it’s going to look amazing on the racetrack."

Van Gisbergen’s illustrious career has seen him achieve remarkable success while piloting the No. 97 in Supercars, where he clinched all three of his championship titles. Additionally, he has raced under this number in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he drove for Kaulig Racing in 2024 and enjoyed a successful run with three victories.

Red Bull’s Sponsorship for the 2026 Season

In a strategic partnership, Red Bull will sponsor both Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch for a total of 25 races throughout the 2026 NASCAR Cup season. This collaboration not only showcases Red Bull’s commitment to supporting emerging talents in motorsport but also highlights their confidence in van Gisbergen’s capabilities as he transitions into this highly competitive series.

An Exciting Future Ahead

The prospect of van Gisbergen competing in the NASCAR Cup Series has generated a buzz among racing fans and experts alike. His transition from Supercars to NASCAR brings a fresh narrative to the sport, and many are eagerly anticipating his performance on the American racing circuit. Given his track record of success and the support from Red Bull, there is a strong belief that van Gisbergen will make a significant impact in his new racing environment.

As the new season approaches, the excitement continues to build. Fans will be keen to see how van Gisbergen adapts to the challenges of NASCAR and how his skills honed in Supercars translate to this different racing format. The combination of his experience, the backing of a major sponsor, and the emotional connection to the No. 97 all create a compelling storyline for the upcoming season.

The Importance of Number Selection in Racing

In the world of motorsport, the numbers that drivers choose or are assigned can carry considerable weight. They often symbolize personal milestones, family heritage, or significant achievements in a driver’s career. For van Gisbergen, the No. 97 is emblematic of his journey and success in Supercars, making its introduction into the NASCAR Cup Series an important moment not just for him personally, but also for his supporters and fans of the sport.

Trackhouse Racing’s Vision

Trackhouse Racing, the team backing van Gisbergen, has been known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence in motorsport. Their dedication to nurturing talent and embracing exciting partnerships has positioned them as a formidable contender within the NASCAR landscape. By bringing van Gisbergen into their fold, they are not only enhancing their team lineup but also adding a driver with a proven track record of success.

The strategy behind the sponsorship and vehicle design reflects a broader vision for the team as they aim to captivate audiences and build a strong fan base. The infusion of Red Bull’s branding into the vehicles adds a layer of excitement and marketability, making the races more engaging for fans both in the stands and at home.

Connor Zilisch: A Rising Star

While Shane van Gisbergen takes center stage with the No. 97, Connor Zilisch is also a name to watch. As a teenager and a fellow Red Bull athlete, Zilisch represents the new generation of talent in motorsport. His participation in the Daytona 500 and subsequent races will be pivotal not only for his career but also for the future landscape of NASCAR.

Zilisch’s fresh perspective and youthful energy, combined with van Gisbergen’s experience, create an intriguing dynamic within Trackhouse Racing. Observers will be keen to see how both drivers perform in the high-stakes environment of NASCAR, and their contrasting styles may even complement each other on the track.

Anticipation for the Upcoming Season

As the countdown to the new season begins, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch adapt to the demands of NASCAR. The combination of their talents, along with the backing of Red Bull and the innovative strategies of Trackhouse Racing, sets the stage for a thrilling series of races.

With the No. 97 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the No. 88 Red Bull car, both drivers will be aiming for success on some of the most iconic tracks in the United States. The anticipation is building, and the stage is set for an exciting year ahead in the NASCAR Cup Series.

As racing enthusiasts prepare to witness the evolution of these two drivers on the track, one thing is certain: the 2026 season promises to deliver unforgettable moments and fierce competition, showcasing the best of what NASCAR has to offer. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the sport, the upcoming races are sure to provide thrilling entertainment and a chance to witness the emergence of new stars in the world of motorsport.