AutoGear
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語
  • STANDINGS
No Result
View All Result
AutoGear
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語
  • STANDINGS
No Result
View All Result
AutoGear

Denny Hamlin Declares Connor Zilisch a “Sure-Fire Star” in NASCAR’s Future

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
November 28, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Denny Hamlin Declares Connor Zilisch a “Sure-Fire Star” in NASCAR’s Future

Nov 9, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Connor Zilisch (88) during the Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin has offered high praise for Trackhouse Racing prodigy Connor Zilisch, dubbing him a “sure-fire thing” as he evaluates the youngster’s potential in NASCAR’s future.

The 2024 NASCAR season saw Zilisch, a rising star in the sport, make waves with his stellar performances. After debuting in the Truck and Xfinity Series, he secured a maiden NASCAR victory at Watkins Glen, stunning the garage with his poise and skill. This breakout success has earned him a full-time Xfinity seat with JR Motorsports for 2025, driving the No. 88 Chevy.


Hamlin’s Assessment of Zilisch’s Potential

Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s most experienced drivers, believes Zilisch has what it takes to excel against seasoned competitors in the Xfinity Series, particularly given his impressive oval racing experience.

“I’d say it’s probably a sure-fire thing, just because he’s got enough experience on ovals,” Hamlin explained. “He’s not as dominant on ovals as he is on road courses, but he’s still very competitive, even against veterans who’ve been in the game for quite some time.”

While Hamlin acknowledges that Zilisch may not dominate the Xfinity Series outright, he predicts a strong debut season, setting a realistic goal of four to five wins for the youngster.

“Will he go win 12 races next year in Xfinity? No, I don’t think so,” Hamlin admitted. “But could he win four or five? Absolutely. Considering the car he’s in and his capabilities, that’s a very feasible goal.”


Zilisch vs. Shane van Gisbergen (SVG)

Hamlin also compared Zilisch to New Zealand’s road course ace Shane van Gisbergen (SVG), another talent generating buzz in NASCAR. While both drivers shine on road courses, Hamlin gave Zilisch the edge for his versatility and adaptability on ovals.

“Connor’s got a leg up on SVG,” Hamlin said. “I think he’s more well-versed in ovals than what SVG is. When you look at their capabilities on road courses, I consider them equals. But in terms of overall versatility, Connor has the advantage.”


What Lies Ahead for Zilisch

With Zilisch stepping into JR Motorsports’ powerhouse No. 88 team, expectations are high. Hamlin emphasized the team’s track record of success and believes Zilisch’s road course prowess, combined with his growing expertise on ovals, makes him a future Cup Series contender.

“Once Connor gets to the Cup Series, he’ll surely be a championship contender and one of the drivers to beat every week,” Hamlin asserted.

As the NASCAR world keeps a close eye on Zilisch, the question remains not if he’ll ascend to the top tier, but when. His journey promises to add another layer of excitement to the sport’s future.

Share212Tweet133Send

Related Posts

Kalle Rovanperä reveals shocking switch from rallying to single-seater racing: the bold new chapter
Motorsports

Kalle Rovanperä reveals shocking switch from rallying to single-seater racing: the bold new chapter

Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool

by Harry Bright
February 6, 2026
Aston Martin and Breitling ignite luxury partnership with stunning special-edition Navitimer launch
Motorsports

Aston Martin and Breitling ignite luxury partnership with stunning special-edition Navitimer launch

Aston Martin Unveils Spectacular Partnership with Breitling: Meet the Exclusive Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43! In a groundbreaking move that has...

by Redação
February 6, 2026
Sebastian Vettel reveals secrets to conquering F1 pressure: a champion’s survival guide
Motorsports

Sebastian Vettel reveals secrets to conquering F1 pressure: a champion’s survival guide

Sebastian Vettel Exposes the Hidden Struggles of F1: The Untold Truth Behind the Glitz and Glamour In a stunning revelation,...

by James Taylor
February 6, 2026
Aston Martin’s bold gamble with Adrian Newey’s design sparks fierce debate over F1 title hopes
Motorsports

Aston Martin’s bold gamble with Adrian Newey’s design sparks fierce debate over F1 title hopes

Aston Martin's Ambitious F1 Dream: Can Newey's Vision Defy the Odds? In a striking turn of events, the Formula 1...

by James Taylor
February 6, 2026

Recent News

Kalle Rovanperä reveals shocking switch from rallying to single-seater racing: the bold new chapter

Kalle Rovanperä reveals shocking switch from rallying to single-seater racing: the bold new chapter

February 6, 2026
Aston Martin and Breitling ignite luxury partnership with stunning special-edition Navitimer launch

Aston Martin and Breitling ignite luxury partnership with stunning special-edition Navitimer launch

February 6, 2026
Sebastian Vettel reveals secrets to conquering F1 pressure: a champion’s survival guide

Sebastian Vettel reveals secrets to conquering F1 pressure: a champion’s survival guide

February 6, 2026
Aston Martin’s bold gamble with Adrian Newey’s design sparks fierce debate over F1 title hopes

Aston Martin’s bold gamble with Adrian Newey’s design sparks fierce debate over F1 title hopes

February 6, 2026

Newsletter

  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • TECHNICAL INFORMATION
  • EDITORIAL STATUS
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS

© 2023 AutoGear - Todos os direitos reservados AutoGear.

MSports Play Icon
MSports Play
The New streaming service
Download
×
No Result
View All Result
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語

© 2023 AutoGear - Todos os direitos reservados AutoGear.