The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season has delivered no shortage of drama, but perhaps the most unexpected storyline is the darkly comedic duel between Shane Van Gisbergen and Riley Herbst—two rookies locked in a battle no driver aspires to win: the unofficial title of Worst Rookie of the Year.
The Contenders: A Study in Contrasts
Shane Van Gisbergen (SVG), the three-time Supercars champion from New Zealand, entered NASCAR with sky-high expectations after a dazzling 2023 Chicago Street Race win. But his transition to full-time Cup racing in 2025 has been… bumpy. Known for his road course prowess, SVG has struggled mightily on ovals, with a string of DNFs (Did Not Finishes) attributed to everything from wall-brushing misadventures to comedic pit-road penalties.
Riley Herbst, a NASCAR lifer groomed in the Xfinity Series, finally secured a Cup seat for 2025. Yet the 26-year-old’s reputation for inconsistency has followed him. Despite flashes of speed, Herbst has become a magnet for mid-pack mayhem, earning nicknames like “The Caution Catalyst” after triggering three multi-car wrecks before the season’s halfway mark.
2025 Lowlights Reel
- SVG’s Oval Woes: His attempt to “drift” through Bristol’s corners in March left his car resembling abstract art. A crew chief radio snippet went viral: “Shane, this isn’t Bathurst. Please turn left.”
- Herbst’s Fuel Follies: At Talladega, Riley ran out of gas while leading—twice. Fans joked he’d confused the fuel can with a decaf latte.
- Double DNF Drama: Both drivers retired from the Coca-Cola 600 after colliding… under caution.
Expert Analysis: What’s Gone Wrong?
Analysts point to divergent issues. For SVG, the learning curve from Supercars to stock cars remains steep. “He’s trying to thread a needle with oven mitts on,” said former champion Tony Stewart. Herbst, meanwhile, faces scrutiny over his aggression. “Riley’s driving like he’s got a vendetta against rear bumpers,” tweeted veteran spotter Brett Griffin.
Team dynamics haven’t helped. SVG’s #91 Trackhouse Chevrolet has battled setup gremlins, while Herbst’s #15 Stewart-Haas Ford reportedly suffers from “communication breakdowns” (read: crew chiefs sighing heavily).
The Fan Verdict
Social media revels in the chaos. Memes of SVG’s car spinning in circles rival Herbst’s “Where’s Riley?” bumper stickers (spoiler: usually in the wall). A viral poll asks: “Who’s your least favorite to see on the track?” Results: 52% SVG, 48% Herbst—a true toss-up.
Who Takes the (Dubious) Crown?
With 10 races left, the “competition” is tighter than a restrictor plate. SVG’s road course chances (Sonoma, Watkins Glen) offer redemption, but Herbst’s desperation moves could seal his fate. Bookmakers humorously list odds:
- -110 SVG (Bet on more “left turns only” confusion)
- -105 Herbst (Bank on another fuel-mileage faceplant)
Silver Linings?
Both drivers retain pockets of hope. SVG’s raw talent and Herbst’s Xfinity pedigree suggest potential turnarounds. As one fan philosophized, “Even bad publicity is publicity. At least they’re memorable.”
Conclusion
Whether this battle becomes a footnote or a legend, 2025’s rookie class proves that not all headlines are glamorous. But in NASCAR, where resilience reigns, SVG and Herbst have time to rewrite their narratives. Until then, pass the popcorn—and maybe a caution flag.
Who’s your pick for the “Worst Rookie of the Year”? Let the debate (and the wreckers) roll on. 🏁💥
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