In a thrilling development for motorsport enthusiasts, former Supercars rivals Shane van Gisbergen and Scott McLaughlin are set to team up for a remarkable one-off entry in the IMSA SportsCar Championship’s GTD Pro class during the iconic Daytona 24 Hours next January. Their collaboration marks a significant moment, as both drivers have not only established their prowess in the Supercars series but are now ready to tackle endurance racing together in a hugely competitive environment.
The duo will pilot a Corvette Z06 GT3.R it under the Trackhouse by TF banner, resulting from a partnership that merges the celebrated NASCAR squad Trackhouse Racing with the well-respected TF Sport. This move signifies more than just a change of racing disciplines. It represents a blending of two worlds within motorsport—NASCAR and endurance racing—allowing the unique talents of these drivers to shine in a new setting.
Joining van Gisbergen and McLaughlin will be two other skilled drivers: Connor Zilisch and Ben Keating. Zilisch, a prodigy in the NASCAR Xfinity series, has already made a name for himself by clinching victory in this year’s Daytona 24 Hours in the LMP2 class. At just 18, his swift rise in the motorsport world showcases exceptional talent and promise for the future. Keating has considerable experience, having previously achieved significant success in the FIA World Endurance Championship and making waves at the famed Le Mans 24 Hours.
Experience Meets Fresh Talent
The age and experience mix within this quartet creates an exciting dynamic. While Zilisch brings youthful energy and recent accolades, Keating’s seasoned background in endurance racing provides a strategic edge. This combination is pivotal for success in a grueling race like Daytona, where teamwork and effective communication are paramount.
Tom Ferrier, the team principal, expressed his enthusiasm for this unique concoction of talent and experiences, indicating the team’s optimism about their potential success. His acknowledgment of the drivers’ individual abilities underlines the strategic thinking behind this partnership—shaping a unit poised to make a serious challenge for endurance racing’s most prestigious accolade, the Rolex watch.
The Rivalry That Transcended Codes
The partnership between McLaughlin and van Gisbergen brings to light a fascinating subplot: their past as rivals in the Supercars Championship. Both drivers have consistently pushed each other to excel, securing three Supercars championships apiece. Their competitive spirit will certainly fuel their performance on the track, as they now transition to a collaborative effort. McLaughlin’s admiration for van Gisbergen is evident, as he has labeled him “one of the best racers” he has encountered. This respect will be crucial as they transition from competitors to teammates, navigating the challenges of the Daytona 24 Hours together.
Van Gisbergen, moving into this sportscar event after an extensive tenure in Supercars, reflects on how special this opportunity is for him. Having previously participated in the Daytona race back in 2020, he underscores the emotional significance of re-entering this high-stakes competition alongside established and talented teammates.
As van Gisbergen gears up for his full NASCAR Cup series debut with Trackhouse, the Daytona 24 Hours will serve as an exciting intersection of his past and future racing endeavors. For McLaughlin, the opportunity to finish his IndyCar season with this endurance race presents a unique challenge, making for an intriguing narrative as the January race approaches. The combination of their racing backgrounds and the unique skill sets each driver brings to the table sets the stage for not just another entry but a serious contender in the upcoming endurance classic.
The pairing of Shane van Gisbergen and Scott McLaughlin—matched with Connor Zilisch and Ben Keating—presents a fascinating blend of experience and youthful ambition. As they prepare for one of motorsport’s most challenging races, the allegiance formed through their competitive histories is poised to lead to success, making for an exciting watch come race day.