Connor Zilisch Aims to Compete at Daytona After Injury
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – JR Motorsports driver Connor Zilisch is preparing for a challenge at Daytona International Speedway this Friday, despite suffering a broken collarbone less than two weeks ago.
Zilisch, the points leader in the Xfinity Series, confirmed on Thursday that he has received medical clearance to compete. He will participate in qualifying and plans to complete all 100 laps of the race at Daytona.
In the event that Zilisch is unable to compete, Parker Kligerman will be available as a substitute at Daytona.
Zilisch’s injury, a 19-year-old with aspirations to compete in the Cup next year, occurred in a fall in the victory area. He underwent surgery to stabilize the fracture.
Before Friday’s race, Zilisch leads the standings by seven points over Justin Allgaier. Even if Kligerman replaces him, Zilisch will accumulate points for participating in the race.
Zilisch has already demonstrated a remarkable ability to recover this season. After missing a race due to a back injury, Zilisch accumulated 11 top-five finishes and five wins since his return.
