Shane van Gisbergen Charges Ahead at All-Star Open

Shane van Gisbergen led the field to green for the NASCAR All-Star Open at North Wilkesboro Speedway on May 18, 2025. Piloting the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet, van Gisbergen took the pole with a lap time of 88.685 seconds, averaging 76.112 mph.

This accomplishment is a major highlight in his first year racing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. Known for his achievements in Supercars, van Gisbergen has made a strong impression by starting up front at a historic oval track he had never previously seen.

The qualifying session was unique at North Wilkesboro, requiring each driver to complete three laps and execute a four-tire pit stop as part of a single timed run. Every part of the process mattered, with quick entries and well-timed stops giving drivers an advantage.

Van Gisbergen’s team performed at a top level, helping him secure the fastest time. He said after qualifying, “We finally got all the things right. My lap was pretty good, coming in was good, and the pit stop guys were insane, so it was really good for them.”

Carson Hocevar claimed the second spot on the starting grid with a time of 88.884 seconds, while Noah Gragson posted a third-best time of 89.596 seconds. The top five were rounded out by Michael McDowell (89.610 seconds) and Ryan Preece (89.688 seconds), showing just how close the competition was for a place in the All-Star Open.

The event sets the lineup for one of NASCAR’s most anticipated races, with only the top two finishers and the fan vote winner advancing to the main All-Star Race, where a $1 million prize awaits the victor.

This year, the NASCAR All-Star Open is set for 100 laps, covering 62.5 miles. With 18 drivers fighting for only three transfer spots, every lap is crucial.

The pressure is high, and mistakes on the track or pit road can end a driver’s hopes for the evening. Van Gisbergen’s quick pace in qualifying gives him the best chance to control the race from the start.

However, drivers like Hocevar, Gragson, and McDowell have all shown the speed to challenge him once the green flag drops.

Throughout the weekend at North Wilkesboro, fans have seen dramatic moments, including hard-fought qualifying heats and fast pit crew challenges. Brad Keselowski set the pace for the All-Star Race pole, while Michael McDowell’s team won the Pit Crew Challenge, highlighting the role of teamwork and precision.

The racing schedule includes the main events and support races, each building excitement for the All-Star showcase. For more details on the history of North Wilkesboro Speedway, check out this resource.

As the field gets ready for the All-Star Open, all eyes are on van Gisbergen to see if he can turn his first NASCAR oval pole into a win and secure a place in the prestigious All-Star Race. The top ten qualifiers, packed with rising stars and Cup Series veterans, will battle for every position and the chance to race for the big prize later in the night.

The NASCAR All-Star Open promises to deliver intense action at North Wilkesboro Speedway. With a $581,100 purse on the line and fierce competition for advancement, the drivers are ready to give it everything they have under the lights.

The event is set to provide plenty of highlights and memorable moments for fans and racers alike. For more insights into NASCAR’s All-Star Race format, visit NASCAR’s official page.