Connor Zilisch to Race Full-Time for JR Motorsports in Xfinity Series

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) — Rising star Connor Zilisch is set to compete full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series next season, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports. This move marks a significant step for the 18-year-old driver, who has already made a name for himself with multiple victories across various racing series this year. Zilisch became eligible for the Xfinity Series after turning 18 on July 22 and has demonstrated his talent with a strong performance in his Truck Series debut, where he set a track record and finished fourth. Zilisch's impressive resume includes class wins at prestigious events such as the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the Twelve Hours of Sebring, as well as four victories in the ARCA series. He joins JR Motorsports, a team owned by NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., known for nurturing talent and producing successful Cup Series drivers like Chase Elliott and William Byron. Zilisch is scheduled to make his first of four Xfinity starts for the team on September 14 at Watkins Glen, with additional races planned at Kansas, Homestead-Miami, and Phoenix. Expressing his excitement, Zilisch described the opportunity as “an amazing moment” and expressed gratitude towards Chevrolet, Trackhouse Racing, and his ARCA team, Silver Hare Racing. He acknowledged the significance of driving for a team led by one of his heroes, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and emphasized his readiness to work hard in this new chapter of his racing career. Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks confirmed that the collaboration with JR Motorsports was a strategic decision, with plans for a sponsorship deal to be announced later this year.