Sven Van Laere

Sven Van Laere is a Belgian racing driver who recently retired from active competition in September 2024 due to medical reasons, bringing an end to a motorsport career spanning over 27 years. A native of Zoersel, Belgium, Van Laere spent many years competing in the Benelux racing scene before gaining prominence in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series (NWES).

Van Laere's NWES debut came in 2019 at Circuit Zolder with Braxx Racing, driving the #78 Ford Mustang in the ELITE 2 Division. He joined CAAL Racing in 2023, marking his first full-time season in the series. In 2024, he continued with CAAL Racing, partnering with reigning EuroNASCAR PRO champion Gianmarco Ercoli. Van Laere was known for his consistent finishes and his ability to keep his car clean, which aided Ercoli's title defense. Throughout his career, Van Laere achieved multiple class wins in the 24 Hours of Zolder and a third-place finish in the 2018 Belcar Endurance Series. He also secured the 2017 Clio Cup Benelux title.

Outside of racing, Van Laere has a background in the automotive industry, having worked as a commercial director, fleet director, and fleet manager. He is also involved with Anecars, an international wholesale mobility solutions company. Now retired from driving, Van Laere is focusing on supporting his son, Maxim, in his burgeoning karting career.