Connor Zilisch will not compete in this weekend’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Texas Motor Speedway after suffering a lower back injury during a dramatic crash on the final lap at Talladega Superspeedway. JR Motorsports confirmed on Wednesday that Kyle Larson will substitute for Connor Zilisch behind the wheel of the No. 88 Chevrolet as Zilisch focuses on his recovery.
While leading last Saturday’s Talladega race on the last lap, Connor Zilisch was turned down the backstretch following contact from Jesse Love, resulting in a violent spin into the inside wall. Despite the severity of the impact, Zilisch exited his car without assistance, was evaluated at the infield care center, and later spoke in a televised interview, stating, “I’m OK. … Very grateful to drive safe JR Motorsports race cars.”
This season marks Zilisch’s rookie campaign in Xfinity, with a victory at Circuit of The Americas and three top-ten finishes, positioning him sixth in the driver standings. His impressive performance is highlighted by an average running position of 10.8, which places him fifth best in the series through eleven races.
With Connor Zilisch temporarily out, all eyes will turn to Kyle Larson as he steps in for Saturday’s Andy’s Frozen Custard 300 at Texas, slated for 2 p.m. ET. The change in the lineup introduces new dynamics for JR Motorsports as they await Zilisch’s full recovery and return to competition in upcoming races.
