Kyle Larson, Shane van Gisbergen engage in epic battle for lead to start Chicago Street Race

Oh. My. Goodness. Kyle Larson and Shane van Gisbergen just put on an absolute show for NASCAR fans on the streets of Chicago. This is only the Xfinity Series race and only the opening stage. These two have another race this weekend.

Throughout Stage 1 it was the 17 then the 97 then the 17 again. These drivers were crossing each other over and trying to fake one another out. With every turn on the track, there was another wild overtake.

Shane van Gisbergen is bringing out the best in Kyle Larson and vice versa. An epic race is brewing on the streets of Chicago.

Wow. Just wow!! pic.twitter.com/0ro9yUuY5o

— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) July 6, 2024

Just a spectacular race right now between the two best drivers on the track. They are putting everything they have into this race and into every turn. Once these cars get into some traffic, then we will learn what they are made of.

These two haven’t been able to get away from one another today. From the Xfinity Series practice to Cup Series practice and qualifying, and now the Xfinity race. Both drivers have a pole award and they are now fighting over the first checkered flag of the weekend.

Two world-class drivers going head to head on the streets of Chicago. What more could you ask for? The racing throughout the field has been fun, too. It’s only going to get more interesting and intense as the laps tick away.

Shane van Gisbergen bringing the best out in Kyle Larson

Truly, we are seeing Shane van Gisbergen push Kyle Larson like no other driver has done. When it comes to road course racing, Larson has always been talented. His braking and car control are more advanced than your average NASCAR driver.

However, it isn’t better than what SVG brings to the table on the road and street courses. His braking, footwork, car control, and racecraft are advanced beyond what we see here in the United States in stock car racing.

You know that a driver like Larson craves this level of competition. He wants to race against the best of the best. When he gets a chance to race against a driver like SVG, then he is going to take every opportunity to improve himself and show his skills.

Shane van Gisbergen and Kyle Larson are going to go down to the wire in this race. Make sure you tune into USA or Peacock and keep up with all of the action as this race begins to finish up.