"God is So Good": Here's What NASCAR Drivers Said After SVG's Unimaginable Triumph

The New Zealander who came to NASCAR and immediately made road courses look easy won at Watkins Glen, his first Cup victory of 2026, and his seventh road course win in the series. That ties Chase Elliott for the most among active drivers. Meanwhile, Chevrolet dominated much of the afternoon, claiming five of the top eight spots.

Michael McDowell finished second, while Connor Zilisch looked like he might challenge SVG before a right-front tire ended that opportunity. Once the checkered flag fell, the garage quickly reacted. But what remained most unimaginable was SVG’s victory itself.

Shane van Gisbergen soaks in a special win The 37-year-old won the race after pitting from the lead with 25 laps remaining. He emerged from pit road in 26th position and needed to make up a 30-second deficit while charging through the field. And that’s exactly what he did, reclaiming the lead with seven laps remaining as he carved through the competition on fresh tires.

In the end, he won by 7. 288 seconds . Additionally, the driver was seen doing his victory burnout before half the field had even finished the race.