Connor Zilisch Set for Key Daytona Appearances in 2026
19-year-old racing talent Connor Zilisch will make a significant mark at Daytona, participating in both the Rolex 24 Hours and the iconic Daytona 500 next year. This marks Zilisch’s third entry in the Rolex 24, where he will co-drive the No. 31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R alongside notable drivers Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Frederik Vesti.
Zilisch enters the 2026 season with an impressive track record, having won in his debut at the Rolex 24 at the age of 17 in 2024, driving an LMP2 car for Era Motorsport. That same year, he clinched a class victory at the Sebring 12 Hours. In 2025, he transitioned to a GTD Pro entry, finishing ninth in class with a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R.
Next year will mark Zilisch’s first foray into the GTP class, positioning him for a potential overall win. He recently completed a testing session with Cadillac, gaining valuable experience in the car prior to the race.
Zilisch joins AJ Allmendinger as the only full-time NASCAR Cup drivers competing in the 64th running of this prestigious endurance race. In 2026, Zilisch will also pilot the No. 88 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Trackhouse during his inaugural full-time Cup season.
Zilisch’s rise continues to capture attention, following a competitive season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series where he secured ten victories but narrowly missed the championship. His performance in both IMSA and NASCAR positions him as a formidable contender in the motorsports landscape.
