The NASCAR world is buzzing after Shane van Gisbergen stirred up controversy with comments aimed at Ryan Blaney’s victory at Watkins Glen. Speaking shortly after the race, van Gisbergen claimed Blaney’s win was the product of “luck” and “bias” from both NASCAR officials and the race judges—a bold accusation that immediately caught fire on social media.
Van Gisbergen, who finished off the podium, suggested that certain calls during the race favored Blaney and that officiating inconsistencies impacted the final outcome. Fans and pundits alike quickly jumped into the debate, with some backing his frustration and others criticizing him for undermining a fellow driver’s achievement.
But perhaps the most notable reaction came from Team Penske owner Roger Penske himself. Known for his measured and calculated public statements, Penske’s response this time was short, sharp, and impossible to misinterpret:
“Winners race. Excuses just talk. That’s all.”
Those eight words reportedly left van Gisbergen without a follow-up, according to sources present. The remark has since gone viral, with many fans calling it one of the most memorable mic-drop moments of the season.
Whether van Gisbergen will clarify or walk back his comments remains to be seen, but the episode has certainly injected a jolt of drama into the NASCAR Cup Series storyline. As the season heads toward its next race weekend, all eyes will be on whether this war of words escalates—or fades into the rearview.
