In the high-stakes world of NASCAR, a new face is emerging with the tenacity, skill, and humility that belies his tender age. Connor Zilisch, a mere 18 years old, has already claimed his first victory of the 2025 season, a feat he achieved despite numerous challenges and against all odds.
Zilisch’s journey to his maiden victory was far from straightforward. Starting on the pole, he led for 26 out of the 65 laps, but an unexpected penalty imposed by NASCAR officials saw him restarting from the 32nd position. Far from being deterred, this young racer displayed a fierce determination to reclaim his lead, even if it meant ruffling a few feathers along the way.
The penalty, resulting from Zilisch crossing the pit line just a fraction of a second too late, not only tested his mettle but also revealed his ability to maintain composure under pressure. The No. 88 Chevy driver fought his way back to the front, showing an aggressive drive that resulted in a collision with Corey Heim’s No. 24 Chevy. Even this setback did not deter Zilisch, who managed to recover and re-engage in a fierce battle with his teammate, Carson Kvapil.
The final five laps saw Kvapil’s No. 1 Chevrolet suffering a punctured tire, providing Zilisch with a clear path to victory. Demonstrating his humility, Zilisch did not shy away from acknowledging his aggressive maneuvers on the track. “I made some moves that were probably questionable and I’ve got some sorrys to say. You know, sometimes, you gotta do what you gotta do to win this race,” he stated following his win.
Zilisch also praised his WeatherTech Junior Motorsports team for their unwavering support, acknowledging that overcoming the penalty and reclaiming the lead was a hard-fought battle. He did not miss the opportunity to acknowledge his competitors. “The 1 was really fast as well – it wasn’t until he made a mistake was I able to get by him with about ten to go,” said Zilisch, revealing his strategy of waiting for his competition to make mistakes.
But not everyone is thrilled with Zilisch’s aggressive driving style. Justin Allgaier, a veteran of JR Motorsports and the 2024 Xfinity Champion, voiced his concerns about Zilisch’s tactics. The controversy arose when Zilisch pushed Allgaier on a restart, leaving him no room. Allgaier expressed his confusion and the need to discuss Zilisch’s mindset during that moment.
Despite these criticisms, comparisons are already being drawn between Zilisch and three-time Cup Series champion, Joey Logano. Like Logano, Zilisch has embarked on his NASCAR career at a young age. In 2024, at just 17, he claimed 15 victories across seven different series, including two endurance races in the LMP2 class and his very first Xfinity Series race at Watkins Glen.
Looking ahead, Zilisch has set his sights high. He hopes to become the youngest Cup Series winner, a goal he believes he can achieve by racing as much as possible before his 19th birthday. “I don’t feel like there’s anything that tells me that I’m not ready to race on a road course on Sunday,” he confidently stated.
Zilisch’s humble demeanor, coupled with his prodigious talent and determination, are evident both on and off the track. His victory, despite the significant hurdles, is a testament to his resilience and ambition. As he continues to navigate the twists and turns of the NASCAR circuit, one thing is clear – the name of Connor Zilisch is one to watch.
