a 12-word message to rival Shane van Gisbergen during the NASCAR season. While the exact wording remains under wraps, insiders report it carried the weight of a challenge, respect, and promise of unfinished business.

Fans instantly connected the moment to the legendary Supercars battles in Australia, where McLaughlin and van Gisbergen’s rivalry drew millions of eyes and fueled one of motorsport’s fiercest competitions.

Adding fuel to the fire, whispers in the garage suggest that McLaughlin recently shared a “secret handshake” moment with Roger Penske, sparking rumors of bigger plans behind the scenes.

Could this be the beginning of a coordinated push to reignite their rivalry on U.S. soil? Industry insiders say McLaughlin may be eyeing ways to shift from IndyCar cameos into crossover events with NASCAR—placing himself once again head-to-head with van Gisbergen.

Racing Community Reacts: “This Could Be Bigger Than Supercars”

Fans and analysts have flooded social media with reactions:

• “If SVG and McLaughlin go at it again, America’s in for a treat.”

• “This could bring an Aussie-style spark to NASCAR!”

• “McLaughlin’s 12 words may be the start of something massive.”

The hype has even reached former Supercars personalities, many of whom have said they’d support a full-blown revival of the rivalry—this time in front of the NASCAR crowd.

Van Gisbergen’s Response: Silence… For Now

So far, Shane van Gisbergen has remained tight-lipped about McLaughlin’s words. But those who know SVG best believe his competitive fire is already burning, and he may be preparing a pointed response both on and off the track.

What It Means for NASCAR’s Future

This potential rekindling of the rivalry could be huge for NASCAR’s global expansion. With both drivers carrying massive international fanbases, their head-to-head battle could attract new audiences and bring a fresh style of competition stateside.