The future of motorsports looks bright with the arrival of Connor Zilisch to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026. After a historic season in the Xfinity Series, where he was crowned regular season champion with ten victories, Zilisch is preparing to make the jump to the top category.
This young pilot from North Carolina, with innate talent and a captivating personality, has proven his worth in various competitions around the world, breaking records and capturing the attention of fans and experts.
Trackhouse Racing, the team that introduced him to NASCAR in 2024, will be in charge of putting Zilisch behind the wheel of the No. 88 Chevrolet, with the support of Red Bull and WeatherTech as its main sponsors.
I think he’s better than I was at his age, and he seems to be more mature than I was at his age.
Joey Logano
Joey Logano, three-time Cup Series champion, highlights the importance of humility and learning for Zilisch in this new stage. Logano, who was also considered a promising talent at one point, knows firsthand the challenges of competing in the Cup Series.
The transition to the Cup Series represents a significant change, where each driver is exceptional and the competition is fierce. Zilisch will have to adapt quickly and learn to deal with the pressure and expectations.Kyle Busch, another driver who came to the Cup Series with high expectations, warns Zilisch about the harsh reality he will face. The difference between the Xfinity Series and the Cup Series is abysmal, and adaptation will require time and effort.
Zilisch, with experience since the age of five in karting and champion of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy, has demonstrated his versatility in various motorsport disciplines. His participation in the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, along with his successful debut in the Xfinity Series, endorse him as a driver with a great future.
In his three Cup Series starts in 2025, Zilisch experienced firsthand the learning curve and the demands of the category. He is aware that he will make mistakes and that the competition gives no respite.
No quarter is given, whether you’re fighting for victory, for a top ten finish, or for 32nd place.
Connor Zilisch
Zilisch has proven to be worthy of the Cup Series, but time will tell how quickly he adapts to the high demands of the category. Experience and learning will be fundamental to his development.
Zilisch’s arrival in the Cup Series promises excitement and competitiveness. Motorsports fans eagerly await to see his performance and how he establishes himself in the NASCAR elite.
