Verstappen expressed his intense excitement while watching Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR victory, describing himself as “literally screaming” throughout the race. Despite his busy schedule leading the F1 world championship, Verstappen closely followed the first-ever street race for the NASCAR Cup Series, which saw challenging wet-to-dry conditions over 75 laps.
Van Gisbergen’s remarkable performance stood out as he maneuvered from the 18th position to take the lead in the final third of the race, eventually claiming the win. Not only did he become the first New Zealander to win a NASCAR race, but he also achieved a feat not seen since Johnny Rutherford over 60 years ago, winning a Cup race on debut. Impressively, Van Gisbergen accomplished this with the part-time Project91 entry for Trackhouse Racing, a car that former F1 champion Kimi Raikkonen had previously driven with less success.
Verstappen admitted to staying awake specifically to witness the race and revealed the immense nervousness he felt while rooting for Van Gisbergen. He described passionately shouting at his monitor, urging him to secure the victory. Verstappen praised Van Gisbergen’s ability to adapt to different racing disciplines, highlighting his exceptional skills in V8s, rally cars, and now NASCAR. Verstappen also commended Van Gisbergen’s mastery of the challenging NASCAR vehicles, noting his impressive performance as a “crazy right-foot braker.”
Verstappen disclosed that he reached out to Van Gisbergen to offer his congratulations after the race. With his triumph in NASCAR, Van Gisbergen has opened up the possibility of transitioning to the series full-time in the future, although the oval tracks would present a considerable challenge. Verstappen, when asked if he would consider trying NASCAR, expressed his preference for remaining a spectator for the time being. While he finds the sport “really, really cool,” he envisions enjoying the races from the sidelines, possibly with a refreshing beer in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NASCAR victory
What was Verstappen’s reaction to Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR win?
Verstappen was “literally screaming” while watching Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR victory. He expressed intense excitement and nervousness throughout the race.
How did Van Gisbergen achieve his NASCAR win?
Van Gisbergen started from the 18th position and drove to the lead in the final third of the race, ultimately claiming victory. He made a crucial pass with just under five laps to go and held on through an overtime restart.
What records did Van Gisbergen set with his NASCAR win?
Van Gisbergen became the first New Zealander to win a NASCAR race. Moreover, he achieved a rare feat not seen in over 60 years, winning a Cup race on debut. He accomplished this with the part-time Project91 entry for Trackhouse Racing.
How did Verstappen describe Van Gisbergen’s performance?
Verstappen praised Van Gisbergen’s skills as a versatile driver, excelling in different racing disciplines. He acknowledged Van Gisbergen’s expertise in V8s, rally cars, and now NASCAR, highlighting his ability to dominate the race despite the challenging nature of NASCAR vehicles.
Will Verstappen consider trying NASCAR himself?
Verstappen stated that he prefers to remain a spectator for the time being. Although he finds NASCAR “really, really cool,” he does not envision participating in the sport and is content enjoying the races from the sidelines.
More about NASCAR victory
- Verstappen admits to “literally screaming” while watching Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR win
- Van Gisbergen’s remarkable NASCAR victory and records set
- Verstappen’s praise for Van Gisbergen’s performance in different racing disciplines
- Verstappen’s stance on trying NASCAR and his preference to remain a spectator
4 comments
Van Gisbergen smashed it in his NASCAR debut! That’s insane, man. Verstappen knows what’s up, he’s all about the action. Can’t wait to see more from these crazy drivers. #NASCAR #VanGisbergen
verstappen is like omg watching Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR win was cray! he was litrly screamin and soooo nervous. such a sick race tho. #NASCAR #excitment
OMG, Van Gisbergen made history! First-ever Kiwi to win a NASCAR race, and on debut! Verstappen’s reactions were priceless. I can feel the adrenaline just reading about it. Such a wild ride! #NASCAR #VanGisbergen #Thrilling
Verstappen was like “I can’t even!” when watching Van Gisbergen’s NASCAR win. Can’t blame him, man, that race was off the hook. Van Gisbergen is a beast behind the wheel. Wonder if Max will ever take a shot at NASCAR. #NASCAR #VanGisbergen