Shane van Gisbergen and Wife Announce Pregnancy Just Six Months After Wedding – Reveal Unique Baby Name in Emotional Post That Has NASCAR Fans Buzzing Worldwide

The NASCAR community is overflowing with joy and emotion after Shane van Gisbergen and his wife, Jessica, announced they are expecting their first child – just six months after tying the knot. The couple shared the heartfelt news on social media late January 15, 2026, in a touching post that not only confirmed the pregnancy but also revealed the baby’s unique name in a way that has fans around the globe talking.

In a beautifully candid Instagram post featuring a series of intimate photos – including a sonogram, the couple’s wedding rings resting on Jessica’s growing belly, and Shane holding her close – the Supercars-turned-NASCAR star wrote: “Six months as husband and wife, and now we get to be parents. Our little one is already loved beyond words. Baby van Gisbergen, coming July 2026 – we’re naming him ‘Ridge’ after the mountain roads that shaped my racing heart and the life we’re building together.” The name “Ridge” – a nod to Shane’s love for rugged New Zealand landscapes and his fearless driving style – immediately captured fans’ imaginations, sparking an outpouring of love and discussion online.

The announcement came as a delightful surprise to the NASCAR world, where van Gisbergen has quickly become a fan favorite since his full-time transition to Trackhouse Racing. After making history with his debut Cup Series win on the Chicago street course in 2023 and following up with five victories and Rookie of the Year honors in 2025, SVG has proven himself as one of the most exciting talents on the grid. Now, at 36, he’s preparing for fatherhood alongside his new wife, Jessica, whom he married in a private ceremony in New Zealand in July 2025.

Fans wasted no time flooding social media with congratulations and excitement over the baby name. #RidgeVanGisbergen and #SVGFamily trended worldwide within minutes, with messages pouring in from drivers, teams, and supporters. Kyle Larson posted: “Congrats to Shane and Jess – little Ridge is going to have the coolest dad in racing.” Martin Truex Jr. added: “Ridge – love the name! Wishing you all health and happiness.” Even rivals joined the celebration, with Joey Logano writing: “Big congrats, mate – fatherhood is the ultimate victory lap.”

The timing of the announcement adds an extra layer of emotion. Van Gisbergen enters the 2026 season as one of the most talked-about drivers, with Trackhouse building around his talent and the team’s aggressive youth strategy. Becoming a father so soon after marriage and during a pivotal career phase has fans buzzing about how he’ll balance racing and family – a challenge many drivers have navigated successfully, from Kyle Busch to Chase Elliott. “Ridge will grow up trackside with the best seat in the house,” one fan commented, summing up the excitement.

Jessica, who has largely stayed out of the spotlight, shared her own post: “From the mountain roads of home to building our family – I’m so grateful to do this with you, Shane. Ridge, we can’t wait to meet you.” The couple’s shared photos – simple, joyful, and deeply personal – resonated with fans, who praised their authenticity and grounded nature in an often high-pressure sport.

The NASCAR community has rallied around the couple with overwhelming support. Team owner Justin Marks posted: “Shane and Jess – Trackhouse family is thrilled for you! Ridge is already part of the team.” Sponsors and partners quickly followed with congratulations, recognizing the positive wave the news has created.

For van Gisbergen, the announcement marks a new chapter. After leaving Supercars to chase his dream in NASCAR, he’s now building a family in the country that has embraced him. “Ridge” – a name inspired by the rugged, challenging roads that shaped his early career – feels fitting for a driver who has always thrived on the edge.

As the 2026 season approaches, fans are already imagining little Ridge trackside, watching his dad race. The unique name has become a talking point, symbolizing strength, adventure, and the wild spirit that defines both Shane’s racing and the journey ahead as a father.

Congratulations to Shane and Jessica – the NASCAR world is celebrating with you. Ridge van Gisbergen is already a legend in the making.