When Shane van Gisbergen kicked off his Australian Supercars legacy with the first championship in 2016, he wanted to thank just one set of people, saying, “I owe everything to my family.” Fast forward to 2024, and as the Kaulig Racing x Trackhouse Racing talent makes his full-time Xfinity Series debut, not much has changed regarding the unwavering support from SVG’s parents until recently. But the Kiwi just announced heartbreaking news about the demise of his biggest supporter, his mother, Karen Wallace.

From dedicating wins to having her name on his car, the Kiwi celebrates his biggest supporter

According to Karen Debra Wallace’s obituary, “Wallace, Karen Debra. Passed away on 15th April 2024, aged 64 years. Much loved wife of Rob van Gisbergen. Loved mother of Shane and Lauren. A service to celebrate Karen’s life will be held at Manukau Memorial Gardens Chapel…”

Mothers are dearest to all, and for Shane van Gisbergen, no source of support had been more crucial than his parents, as was evident when SVG dedicated his Supercars 500 win to them. Besides the direct help he received from his father’s prior racing experience, Shane van Gisbergen’s greatest help off-track had been his mother, Karen Wallace.

Although not much is known about SVG’s mother, her frequent on-track sightings and visits to Victory Lane after he had dominated the field have become quite a wholesome sight for Supercars fans. In Sydney, 2016, it was after his realization that all the hard work and dedication from his parents, Robert and Karen, had paid off that his mother celebrated him big time.

Unfortunately, Shane van Gisbergen had to suffer from a heavy loss. She hasn’t been seen making many social media appearances, but we have a sweet memory of the mother-son duo from 2018 Mother’s Day.

It was just a few hours back when the Kiwi broke the tragic news about his mother’s passing, as he shared on X, “Been a pretty tough couple of weeks here with my Mum passing back home in NZ. Thanks to my teams for letting me run her last name on my door the past couple of weekends.” The 34-year-old hailing from New Zealand attached an image of himself alongside the #97 Kaulig Racing car, standing right next to the ‘Wallace’ name engraved on the driver-side window (visible in black letters on the white background).

As Shane van Gisbergen undergoes one of the biggest losses of his life, EssentiallySports sends its heartfelt condolences to his family, fans, and friends. May his mother rest peacefully in heaven! Speaking of which, the entire NASCAR community on X chimed in to share their best wishes and condolences to the van Gisbergen family.

NASCAR fans extend their unwavering support to SvG during this time of sorrow

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Although Shane van Gisbergen has only been in NASCAR for a very short period of time, it didn’t stop the NASCAR community from taking him in as one of our own. So when news broke of Mrs. Wallace’s untimely demise, fans were left distraught as they shared their prayers and wishes.

One user stated, “Sending love and prayers to you and your fam SVG. ❤🫶🏽” where another sympathized with SvG, pointing out the wholesome tribute. The user shared, “Shane I’m so sorry about your Mum 🙏🏼🕊 praying for you and your family. The red suit is absolute fire”.

Veteran insiders, including pit crew members, were also equally sympathetic. One such veteran stated, “Oh my god brother. That is terrible news. I’m so sorry. Just prayed for you and your family.” On the other hand, users who had experienced similar tragedies in their own lives were amongst the first to comfort SvG. A compassionate fan shared;  “aww man, i lost my mom when i was 6, be glad you got to spend many years with your mom, i hope you remember all the good times and may her memory be rewarding.” Another fan also tweeted; “Nothing like losing your mom. Prayers up for you SVG!

Some even looked to highlight SvG’s road to international success as the perfect gifts for his mother’s lifelong support. One user looked to cheer up the Kiwi, “Thoughts and prayers buddy. I’ve been there and I know it’s not an easy road but I know she’s proud of you”

Whereas another was baffled by SvG’s friendliness and composure during such a testing time; “Dude!!! I’m so sorry for your loss!!! You were awesome enough to shake my hand as you left Dover on Saturday. If I had any idea I would have said something. Anyways. Great to meet you. Thank you!”

After taking a look at how the NASCAR community unified to support SVG in this time of sorrow, it’s safe to say that Kiwi has been left in good hands by his biggest support. Rest in peace, Karen Wallace.