Connor Zilisch: Rising Star in NASCAR’s Cup Series
Connor Zilisch, an 18-year-old prospect with Trackhouse Racing, continues to make waves in NASCAR. With the support of Red Bull, Zilisch debuted in the Cup Series at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), where he qualified 14th but faced misfortune in a mid-race collision with teammate Daniel Suarez, ultimately finishing 37th after completing 49 laps.
Zilisch returned for his oval debut at the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR’s longest race, qualifying 33rd. He encountered a spinning incident involving Jimmie Johnson but managed only minor damage, finishing in 23rd place. Meanwhile, Ross Chastain, Zilisch’s teammate, took the victory.
Trackhouse Racing has announced that Zilisch will participate in two additional Cup races this season: the Atlanta race on June 28, recently renamed EchoPark Speedway, and the Watkins Glen race on August 10, where he achieved his first Xfinity Series victory.
“It’s awesome to have the opportunity to race two more times in the NASCAR Cup Series,” Zilisch stated. “Nothing beats experience in this sport, especially at the Cup level. Thanks to everyone at Red Bull and Trackhouse for this opportunity.”
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Zilisch holds fifth place in the regular-season standings. Despite a minor back injury incurred during a crash at Talladega, he secured his playoff spot with a win at COTA and has showcased his growth on ovals with back-to-back runner-up finishes at Charlotte and Nashville.
For more updates, stay tuned as Zilisch’s journey in NASCAR continues to unfold.
