As the 2024 NASCAR season kicks into high gear, the race series is setting its sights beyond American borders, striving to captivate a new wave of international fans. The strategic moves, from the historic Mexico Series race at the L.A Coliseum to the Netflix sensation “NASCAR: Full Speed” making waves in Canada, underscore NASCAR’s commitment to global expansion.
Adding to this international fervor is the remarkable debut of New Zealand’s motorsport icon, Shane van Gisbergen, in the Cup Series. His stellar performance at the inaugural Chicago Street Course race not only marked a triumphant beginning but also ignited enthusiasm among Kiwi supporters eager to witness their compatriot’s NASCAR journey. The icing on the cake for fans? The assurance that they can catch all the live action for free!
Dawn of a New Era: Kiwis Gear Up for NASCAR Extravaganza
In a strategic move to cater to the burgeoning fanbase in New Zealand, both the Cup Series and the Xfinity Series will be available for live viewing on ThreeNow, the premier motorsport streaming platform in the country.
The Xfinity Series kicks off its broadcast on February 18th at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead. Kiwi fans can also savor the Busch Light Clash on February 5th, offering a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.
With Shane van Gisbergen slated to participate in a minimum of seven Cup Races, Kiwi enthusiasts are in for a treat, with front-row seats to witness their racing hero in action.
SVG’s Take: A Promise to Make It Worthwhile
Reflecting on the groundbreaking announcement, Shane van Gisbergen expressed his excitement. “Awesome to hear the news that NASCAR will be shown on TV in NZ this year!” said van Gisbergen. He acknowledged the time difference, stating, “It’ll be a few early Sunday and Monday mornings for the Kiwi fans, but hopefully, I can do my best to make it worth it.”
With a full-time Xfinity Series campaign and a Cup Series appearance on the horizon, SVG not only aims to carve a path for his own success but also to elevate the sport’s popularity in New Zealand.
Broadcasting Brilliance: ThreeNow’s Role in NASCAR’s Flourishing Landscape
Juliet Peterson, Senior Director of Content & BVOD at Warner Bros. Discovery ANZ, emphasized the pivotal role of ThreeNow in amplifying the NASCAR experience for Kiwi fans. “Three has been New Zealand’s home of free motorsport for decades, and we are incredibly proud to bring this momentous season of NASCAR to ThreeNow and allow all Kiwis the chance to follow Shane van Gisbergen,” Peterson stated. The collaboration underscores a commitment to provide fans with an immersive and accessible platform to witness the thrills of NASCAR.
Van Gisbergen’s Preparations: Mentoring from a NASCAR Legend
As Shane van Gisbergen braces himself for the challenges ahead, recently retired NASCAR legend Kevin Harvick has been a guiding force. The Kiwi racer, set to embark on a full-time Xfinity Series campaign, has been proactive in preparing for the transition. From acclimating to North Carolina’s chilly climate to interacting with his new neighbors, SVG is leaving no stone unturned in his off-track adjustments.
Looking forward to running my @NASCAR Cup Races with @KauligRacing in the #16 this year 😀 https://t.co/MukcQdraGr
— Shane van Gisbergen (@shanevg97) February 1, 2024
However, when it comes to the on-track preparations, van Gisbergen acknowledged that simulator training only goes so far. Expressing his awe at the unique challenges of oval racing, he admitted, “The SIM doesn’t prepare you for the negative G into the banking. That was a pretty cool feeling.” Harvick’s advice, though realistic, added a layer of intensity to the preparation.
“‘It’s going to be the biggest hits you’re ever going to take,’ he said. That’s not a nice thing to hear, but it’s reality. I’m probably going to make some mistakes, crashing cars. It all looks tough. None of it looks easy,” SVG revealed.
Anticipation Builds: Kiwis Gear Up for SVG’s NASCAR Debut
As Shane van Gisbergen gears up for his NASCAR journey, the anticipation among Kiwi fans is reaching a fever pitch. The blend of strategic broadcasting decisions, SVG’s commitment to making the races worthwhile for fans, and the mentorship from a NASCAR legend set the stage for a thrilling chapter in New Zealand’s motorsport legacy.
