Trackhouse Racing, one of NASCAR’s hottest and most competitive teams, is going through notable changes, both at the executive level and within its driver lineup. Recently, it was reported that Ty Norris, the longtime president of Trackhouse Racing, has parted ways with the organization. This news was confirmed by The Athletic’s reporter, Jeff Bianchi, who also speculated that Norris could be on his way to Kaulig Racing, though his potential role there remains undisclosed.
This development marks a significant shift for Trackhouse Racing, a team that has risen rapidly in prominence within NASCAR. Under Norris’ leadership, Trackhouse became a contender, fielding cars that consistently challenged the competition. His departure signals the beginning of a new chapter for the team as it looks to continue building on its success.The departure of Ty Norris isn’t the only major shake-up at Trackhouse Racing this season. The team has also decided to part ways with driver Zane Smith, who drove the No. 71 car for Spire Motorsports as part of a collaborative effort with Trackhouse. Smith, a talented driver with a bright future, had originally planned to finish the 2024 season with Trackhouse before moving on. However, the organization has confirmed that he will not return to the team in 2025.In his place, Trackhouse Racing has made a bold move by signing New Zealand’s Shane van Gisbergen (SVG) to drive a Cup Series car for the 2025 season. Van Gisbergen has already shown flashes of brilliance in his brief time racing in NASCAR, with several top-tier finishes, including an impressive second-place result at Watkins Glen International last weekend
While a second-place finish is usually a reason to celebrate, for SVG, it came with a sense of disappointment. Van Gisbergen was in a prime position to win the race, leading into overtime with what seemed like a solid advantage. However, a rare mistake in the bus stop section of the track allowed Chris Buescher to close the gap and ultimately overtake him for the win.Denny Hamlin, a veteran NASCAR driver, expressed his surprise at the turn of events, especially given van Gisbergen’s typically disciplined driving style. “I was impressed with Chris [Buescher] and his ability to close the gap,” Hamlin said, noting how unexpected SVG’s error was. “I thought if van Gisbergen had the lead in the final lap, he wouldn’t make a mistake. But that’s racing—you can’t overlook the pressure and execution Buescher showed.”Despite this minor setback, van Gisbergen’s potential is clear, and Trackhouse Racing is betting on his ability to consistently compete at the highest level. His signing represents a significant investment in the team’s future, as Trackhouse continues to position itself as a powerhouse in NASCAR.
The future looks exciting yet uncertain for Trackhouse Racing. With Ty Norris’ departure Zane Smith and Shane van Gisbergen, the team is undergoing a transition period. However, Trackhouse has a proven track record of making bold, strategic moves that have paid off, both on and off the track.As the team looks ahead to the 2025 season with van Gisbergen behind the wheel, the pressure will be on to maintain the upward trajectory they’ve built over the past few years. Shane van Gisbergen’s skills and racing pedigree offer Trackhouse fans a lot to look forward to, even if the road to victory in 2025 will likely come with a few bumps along the way.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on how Trackhouse navigates the remainder of the 2024 season and what other surprises may be in store for the team. Will van Gisbergen continue to learn from these near-miss experiences and rise to dominate the field? How will the team fare without Ty Norris at the helm? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Trackhouse Racing is not slowing down anytime soon.
“NASCAR Shockwave: Trackhouse Racing President Ty Norris Parts Ways with the Team!”
