Motorsport: SVG laughs off rival threats to take him out

Shane Van Gisbergen of Red Bull Racing Australia during the ITM Auckland SuperSprint. Photo / Supplied

A story by the Daily Telegraph in Australia claiming rival drivers might be out to take out championship leader Shane van Gisbergen at the ITM Auckland SuperSprint has been laughed off by the Kiwi.

The report, written by controversial motorsport writer James Phelps, suggested at least three drivers would look to execute some payback this weekend for van Gisbergen's aggressive driving style as the 27-year-old Red Bull Racing driver attempts to hold on to a 148-point championship lead over the final two rounds.

"I did an interview with a friend in the New Zealand media today and afterwards he showed me the story and I read and thought what the hell," van Gisbergen explained.

"And then I saw who it was written by," he sarcastically laughed.

When asked if he was at all concerned he replied emphatically: "No."

Countryman Scott McLaughlin is adamant no driver in the field would seriously turn that attitude into reality.

"Phelps talks a bit of sh*t so I wouldn't take any of that seriously," McLaughlin told herald.co.nz.

"It is just ludicrous. That is trying to get a headline.

"At the end of the day people might have a beef [with van Gisbergen] but there are rules in place. You can't just go and take someone out."

Volvo driver McLaughlin is trying to beat out Craig Lowndes for third place in the championship but admits he is hoping his fellow Kiwi succeeds in his championship battle with Jamie Whincup.

"If anyone can win it you would love a Kiwi to do it," McLaughlin says.

"Shane has done a fantastic job all year. I would love to see him do it.

"I would love to do it myself but at the next best thing is another Kiwi doing it."