This Sunday, the NASCAR world will be abuzz as 18-year-old sensation Connor Zilisch takes the wheel for his highly anticipated Cup Series debut. With a trailblazing career already underway, Zilisch has cemented his place in the history books and is poised to make a lasting impact on the sport.
Racing Royalty Backing
Zilisch boasts an impressive support system, with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and JR Motorsports backing him on the Xfinity level, and Team Trackhouse preparing his Cup Series car. This potent combination of talent and resources has Zilisch primed for victory on any level.
Red Bull Revival
Zilisch will be driving the #87 Chevy for Trackhouse Racing, with Red Bull as his primary sponsor – a brand that’s been absent from NASCAR since 2011. However, with the hype surrounding Zilisch and his Kiwi teammate Shane Van Gisbergen, Red Bull is back in the sport and ready to make a splash.
A Star is Born
Zilisch’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Circuit of the Americas in March 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. He set a track record in qualifying and finished fourth despite early setbacks. In September 2024, he made headlines again by winning his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Watkins Glen, leading half of the 90 laps and outlasting the field in a thrilling two-overtime finish.
History in the Making
At just 18 years and 54 days old, Zilisch became the second-youngest winner in Xfinity Series history, hot on the heels of Joey Logano, who won in Xfinity at Kentucky Speedway in 2008 at the age of 18 years and 21 days old. This Sunday, Zilisch has the potential to become the youngest driver to ever win a Cup Series, should he take the checkered flag at COTA.
A Driving Style Fit for a Champion
In a recent interview, Zilisch drew comparisons between his driving style and that of three-time Cup Series Champion Joey Logano, who currently holds the record for the youngest Cup Series winner. Zilisch’s confidence and skill behind the wheel have him pegged as a top contender for this weekend’s race.
Odds Are in His Favor
As of writing, DraftKings has Zilisch at +750 to win this Sunday on the Cup level, and a staggering -160 to win on Saturday in his Xfinity appearance. Don’t miss the first road course race of the year this Sunday, March 2nd, at 3:30pm EST on FOX. For more NASCAR coverage, subscribe to Rubbin’ is Racing and check out our exclusive interview with Connor Zilisch.
Leave a Reply