Shane van Gisbergen, also known as SVG, has been making waves in the NASCAR world with his impressive performances on the road courses. The New Zealand native, who had a stellar rookie season in the Xfinity series, recently added another feather to his cap with his second Cup Series win at the Grant Park 165 in Chicago on July 6. Starting from the pole position, SVG dominated the race and left his competitors in awe.
The 2025 season has been a breakthrough year for SVG, who has been consistently proving his talent and skill on the track. His recent win at the Grant Park 165 has only solidified his position as one of the top drivers in the Cup Series. However, some fans and experts have been quick to compare him to the legendary Tony Stewart, who is known for his dominance on the road courses. But is it fair to compare SVG to Stewart so early in his career? Let’s take a closer look.
SVG’s journey in NASCAR began in 2024 when he joined the Xfinity series as a rookie. Despite being new to the series, he made an immediate impact with his impressive performances. He finished the season with three wins, 12 top-five finishes, and 20 top-ten finishes, earning him the Rookie of the Year title. His success in the Xfinity series caught the attention of many, and he was soon promoted to the Cup Series.
In his debut season in the Cup Series, SVG has already made a name for himself with two wins and several top-ten finishes. His first win came at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in May, where he dominated the race and led 35 of the 47 laps. And just a few weeks later, he once again proved his mastery on the road courses with his win at the Grant Park 165. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, and he has been hailed as one of the most promising young drivers in the Cup Series.
However, some fans and experts have been quick to compare SVG to Tony Stewart, who is considered one of the greatest road course drivers in NASCAR history. Stewart, a three-time Cup Series champion, has 49 career wins, including eight wins on road courses. His dominance on the road courses is unmatched, and many believe that SVG is on his way to becoming the next Tony Stewart.
But is it fair to compare SVG to Stewart at this stage of his career? While SVG has shown immense potential and talent, it is too early to label him as the next Tony Stewart. Stewart’s success and dominance on the road courses came after years of experience and hard work. He had to face many challenges and setbacks before establishing himself as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. SVG’s career is still in its early stages, and he has a long way to go before he can be compared to Stewart.
Moreover, SVG himself has stated that he doesn’t want to be compared to anyone and wants to create his own legacy in NASCAR. In an interview after his win at the Grant Park 165, he said, “I don’t want to be compared to anyone. I want to be myself and do my own thing. I have a lot to learn and a lot to prove, and I’m just focused on doing my best every time I’m on the track.”
While it is natural for fans and experts to make comparisons, it is important to remember that every driver has their own journey and career path. SVG has shown great potential, and it is only a matter of time before he establishes himself as a top driver in the Cup Series. He has already proven his skills on the road courses, and with his determination and hard work, he can achieve even greater success in the future.
In conclusion, SVG’s recent win at the Grant Park 165 has once again put him in the spotlight, and many have started comparing him to the legendary Tony Stewart. While it is too early to make such comparisons, there is no denying that SVG is a talented and promising driver who has a bright future ahead of him. Let’s give him the time and space to carve his own path and create his own legacy in NASCAR. As for now, let’s just sit back and enjoy the thrilling performances of this young and talented driver.