Scott McLaughlin's Clear Priority: IndyCar Success Over NASCAR Dreams
Scott McLaughlin, the talented New Zealand racing driver, has been remarkably transparent about his career trajectory, and his name has resurfaced in NASCAR discussions. While expressing genuine interest in someday experiencing a NASCAR race, McLaughlin emphasizes that his primary commitment remains firmly with Team Penske and the IndyCar series.
Penske's Backing and the Timing Question
The most significant endorsement comes from racing legend Roger Penske, who fully supports McLaughlin's potential crossover. This backing essentially opens the door for such a move. However, McLaughlin stresses that the central issue isn't about willingness but rather about perfect timing. He is cautious about letting any new venture distract him from his principal objectives in IndyCar.
Speaking during recent IndyCar content days, the driver explained that while the prospect of a one-off NASCAR appearance is undoubtedly tempting, his foremost priority is achieving success in his current open-wheel racing discipline. "We have so much here to focus on," McLaughlin noted, acknowledging the ongoing conversations about a NASCAR tryout.
From Supercars Dominance to American Ascent
The 32-year-old driver relocated to the United States in 2021 following a spectacularly dominant period in Australian Supercars. There, he secured three consecutive championships with DJR Team Penske. When Roger Penske presented him with an opportunity to race stateside, McLaughlin accepted immediately, though the specific direction surprised him.
McLaughlin admitted he initially anticipated his American debut would be in stock cars, making the shift to IndyCar's open-wheel format an unexpected turn. Nevertheless, he wholeheartedly embraced the challenge and has diligently built his career within the series. This deep investment is precisely why he approaches any additional commitments with such care.
Passion for Racing and a Cautious Approach
"Look, we have joked about it," McLaughlin revealed, referencing conversations with Penske about following in the footsteps of fellow New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen, who now competes full-time in NASCAR. "I know Roger would like to see me try it, and people talk to him about it all the time."
He was quick to affirm his profound passion for motorsport, stating he would never lightly decline a racing opportunity. "I am very happy doing what I am doing right now," McLaughlin said. "If he came to me tomorrow and asked me to do a NASCAR race, I would do it. I love racing. I love the sport, and I love being part of it."
Why a Full-Time NASCAR Move Isn't on the Radar
Despite the friendly rivalry with van Gisbergen, who has excelled on road courses in NASCAR, McLaughlin has no immediate plans for a permanent switch. "No, I do not really have much interest in going full-time in NASCAR," he stated clearly. "I love IndyCar racing. You never say never, but I am fully focused here."
Personal considerations significantly influence this stance. McLaughlin became a father in October 2024, and a full NASCAR schedule would demand his absence for approximately 38 weekends annually—a substantially greater time commitment compared to the IndyCar calendar.
Furthermore, his 2025 IndyCar season did not unfold as envisioned. After entering as a title favorite, he ultimately finished 10th in the standings. Rectifying this performance and returning to championship contention is currently his most pressing concern. For Scott McLaughlin, the path forward is clear: excel in IndyCar first, and only then consider expanding his racing horizons.
