From Supercars to NASCAR: Will Brown's Chicago Challenge
Australian Supercars champion Will Brown is gearing up for a significant challenge as he prepares to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series race on the Chicago Street Course. Scheduled for July 6, Brown will drive the No. 13 MobileX and Shaw and Partners Financial Services Chevrolet for Kaulig Racing. This marks a notable transition for the 26-year-old, who has already made a name for himself with eleven career wins in the Australian Supercars Series and a third-place finish in last year's Bathurst 1000.
Brown's excitement for the event is palpable. 'After watching SVG win the 2023 Chicago NASCAR race and getting to drive myself at Sonoma last year, I've been really keen to have a go at the Grant Park 165,' he said. With the Supercars calendar aligning to allow him time to prepare in Charlotte, Brown is eager to take on this unique street race and showcase his skills on an international stage.
Kaulig Racing's Confidence in Brown's Talent
Kaulig Racing is thrilled to have Brown behind the wheel for this prestigious event. Team owner Matt Kaulig expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'This is an amazing opportunity for Kaulig Racing to compete for a win in one of the most prestigious events on the calendar. We are so excited to have Will race with us and compete for the trophy.' The team's confidence in Brown's abilities is evident as they prepare to field a third entry specifically for him in Chicago.
Brown's prior experience in NASCAR includes a Cup debut last year at Sonoma with Richard Childress Racing, where he started 24th and finished 31st. This experience, combined with his success in Australia—including becoming the first driver in 40 years to earn a podium finish in every round of the Australian Supercars Championship in 2024—positions him as a formidable contender. 'I have watched Kaulig Racing closely this season and I'm really excited to get behind the wheel of the MobileX and Shaw and Partners Financial Services No. 13,' Brown added.
Aiming for History on the Chicago Streets
As Brown prepares for the Chicago Street Race, he hopes to make history by becoming the first Australian-born driver to win the event. He will face tough competition, including Shane van Gisbergen, who won the inaugural Chicago race in 2023 and served as Brown's spotter during his Sonoma debut. This time, however, van Gisbergen will be among the 40-strong Cup field that Brown must contend with.
Supported by sponsors MobileX and Shaw and Partners Financial Services, Brown's bid for victory is backed by significant resources and enthusiasm from his team. His journey from the Australian Supercars Series to the challenging streets of Chicago represents not only a personal milestone but also a chance to elevate Kaulig Racing's profile in one of NASCAR's most unique events. Fans eagerly await to see if Brown can translate his Supercars dominance into success on American soil.