Connor Zilisch will race full-time within the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports.
The 18-year-old Trackhouse Racing development driver burst onto the racing scene in 2024 with a powerful track record including victories within the LMP2 Rolex 24 at Daytona and Twelve Hours of Sebring.
#18 Era Motorsport ORECA LMP2-Gibson: Dwight Merriman, Ryan Dalziel, Connor Zilisch
Photo: Jake Galstad / Motorsports images
He followed those victories with 4 more ARCA Series victories at Dover (Del.) Speedway in April, Flat Rock (Mich.) Speedway in May, Iowa Speedway in June and Indianapolis Raceway Park in July. He also won a CARS Tour race at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway in April.
Zilisch set a brand new track record in his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, in March, winning the pole by seven-tenths of a second and ending fourth after running from the back of the sphere.
Connor Zilisch, Spire Motorsports, Austin Hatcher Foundation Chevrolet Silverado
Photo: Nigel Kinrade / NKP / Motorsports images
“This is an incredible moment for me and everyone who has helped me get to this point in my career,” said Zilisch, who became eligible to race within the Xfinity Series only after turning 18 on July 22.
“With a lot support from Chevrolet and the possibility to race in trucks and ARCA with Silver Hare Racing, I used to be in a position to sign with Trackhouse Racing and so they went to work to provide me an incredible opportunity. I’m very grateful and may’t wait to indicate them that their confidence in me is justified.
“It’s amazing to be driving for JR Motorsports and Dale Earnhardt Jr., one of my heroes. I’m ready to work hard.”
He joins the JR Motorsports organization that launched the careers of NASCAR stars William Byron, Chase Elliott, Brad Keselowski and Tyler Reddick.
“Connor is an impressive driver at such a young age,” said Earnhardt Jr. “We are excited to have him behind the wheel full-time next season. He is well on his way to some success with the support of Chevrolet, Trackhouse Racing and now JR Motorsports.”
Zilisch will drive the No. 88 automotive for JR Motorsports in a four-race deal this season. His schedule begins at Watkins Glen International (September 14) and includes races at Kansas Speedway (September 28), Homestead-Miami Speedway (October 26) and Phoenix Raceway (November 9).
Trackhouse founder and owner Justin Marks said the pairing of Zilisch with JR Motorsports was intentional.
“We are excited to begin our partnership with JR Motorsports and know that Connor is in good hands as we work together to continue his development,” said Marks, who added that an announcement on the sponsorship will come later within the yr.
“Connor has a bright future in this sport and we plan to be together for a long time. JR Motorsports is the perfect partner for Trackhouse and Connor.”
