Shane van Gisbergen STRIPPED of NASCAR Title After Watkins Glen Controversy – Justin Marks FIRES BACK as Fans ERUPT
In a shocking twist that has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR world, CEO Ben Kennedy has officially stripped Shane van Gisbergen of his championship title following his controversial win at Watkins Glen. The announcement, made during a press conference earlier today, cited “serious violations of NASCAR’s sporting regulations” as the primary reason for the unprecedented decision.
According to sources close to the governing body, Van Gisbergen’s car failed post-race inspection due to “unauthorized aerodynamic modifications” not compliant with the Cup Series rulebook. Although details remain limited, the infraction has sparked an immediate and passionate reaction across the motorsport community.
“This decision was not taken lightly,” Kennedy stated. “Integrity and fairness are the foundation of our sport. Unfortunately, the post-race findings forced our hand.”
But within minutes of the announcement, Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks—Van Gisbergen’s team boss—launched a fierce response that ignited social media.
“This is a disgrace to racing integrity,” Marks said in a brief but biting statement.
The seven words were enough to spark a full-blown fan revolt. Supporters of Van Gisbergen, as well as neutral fans disillusioned by what they call “inconsistency and favoritism,” have taken to X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and other platforms to boycott NASCAR.
Hashtags like #JusticeForSVG, #BoycottNASCAR, and #BringBackShane trended within hours. Several fan accounts with tens of thousands of followers changed their profile pictures in solidarity and flooded NASCAR’s official pages with criticism.
“What happened to letting drivers race?” one fan commented. “You strip a champion over a tech issue while others have skated by worse?”
SVG, a New Zealand native and Supercars legend, has rapidly built a passionate American fanbase since entering NASCAR. His rise, marked by daring passes and fearless wet-weather drives, culminated in the now-disputed victory at Watkins Glen—a race many described as one of the most thrilling in years.
“I race to win. That’s all I’ve ever done,” Van Gisbergen said in a brief post, avoiding direct comments about the decision but hinting at potential legal action or appeal.
Insiders say the team is exploring all options, including formal protest procedures and potential withdrawal from upcoming events.
Meanwhile, NASCAR is facing one of the most turbulent moments in recent memory. Sponsors are reportedly requesting clarification, while other team owners remain silent—possibly waiting to see how the situation unfolds.
This controversy echoes past disputes in the sport, but few have resulted in the removal of a championship title post-race. The fallout from this decision is far from over.
One thing is certain: Shane van Gisbergen’s name is now etched in NASCAR history—not just for his talent, but for a controversy that may reshape the sport’s future.
Stay tuned. This story is developing.
