Connor Zilisch to Join NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing in 2026
Trackhouse Racing confirmed Saturday at Daytona International Speedway that 19-year-old Connor Zilisch will become a full-time driver in the NASCAR Cup Series starting in 2026. Zilisch will take over the No. 99 car currently driven by Daniel Suarez, who will depart the organization at the end of the current season.
“This day has been a dream of mine for a long time,” Zilisch said. “Cup racing has been the goal since joining with Chevrolet and Trackhouse, and while I didn’t know it would come this soon, I feel like I’m ready.”
Zilisch is enjoying a strong season in the Xfinity Series, where he leads with seven victories and is currently in a close competition for the regular-season championship alongside JR Motorsports teammate Justin Allgaier, with only two races remaining.
His Cup Series debut took place in March at Circuit of The Americas, and he has since raced in two additional events. Zilisch was expected to start his fourth race earlier this month but was sidelined due to a collarbone injury sustained while celebrating an Xfinity Series win.
Justin Marks, co-owner of Trackhouse Racing, praised Zilisch’s talent, stating, “Connor is a rare talent that comes along every few decades.” Marks highlighted Zilisch’s quick adaptation to various racing formats and his impressive accomplishments in the Xfinity Series this season.
The details regarding Zilisch’s car number, crew, and crew chief will be announced in the future, with Red Bull and WeatherTech confirmed as key sponsors of his program.
Zilisch’s professional career began in earnest when he debuted in the NASCAR national series at Circuit of The Americas in the Craftsman Truck Series, where he earned pole position. He later made an impactful entrance in the Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen, winning both the pole and the race.
With a background in sports car racing, Zilisch is the youngest driver to win a Trans Am race and was also the first American to secure the CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy. As he prepares for his Cup Series stint, he aims to bring a high level of commitment and learning to the Trackhouse Racing team.
