Connor Zilisch has offered a hopeful update regarding his back injury just days before the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Texas, assuring fans and followers that his recovery is progressing steadily even though he will not be behind the wheel this weekend. While Zilisch is not cleared to race, he is present at the track to support his JR Motorsports team, with star driver Kyle Larson stepping in as his replacement for the No. 88 entry. The 18-year-old rising NASCAR talent spoke openly about his condition, his mindset during recovery, and the plans for a safe return, underscoring his commitment to both his health and his career.
After suffering a back injury that forced him to step away from racing duties in Texas, Connor Zilisch addressed the media outside the JR Motorsports hauler, sharing that he is under close medical supervision and prioritizing a careful approach.
Yeah, I feel okay. You know, it’s a lot of what I’m doing is not up to me, I listen to all the doctors around me and the people around me that have a lot more, not only racing experience, but life experience,
Zilisch explained.
I’ve got a lot ahead of me, and to rush back into something after a crash like that would be silly.
He added that he is taking the recovery process one day at a time and feeling gradual improvement, expressing gratitude toward everyone supporting him with honest advice and care.
Though Connor Zilisch did not disclose the specifics of his back injury, he emphasized that initial tests show no severe damage.
I don’t know what I’m allowed to say,
Zilisch clarified.
I cleared all my X-rays at the track, and there was nothing obvious. Everything is very minor, I’ll say that. But, I don’t know what I’m allowed to say to the extent of what my injuries are, but I’ll probably just plead the fifth and not get myself in trouble. Everything is, there is no crazy big injury that is going to hold me for months. It’s going to be day by day.
In light of the setback, NASCAR has provided a playoff waiver for Connor Zilisch, ensuring he maintains eligibility for the postseason despite missing the Texas race. While this exception shields his playoff points, he will still see a dip in driver points as a result of his absence. However, with Kyle Larson—one of the sport’s most accomplished stock car drivers—taking over for the Texas round, the No. 88 JR Motorsports team remains highly competitive and strong in the owners’ points standings.
Connor Zilisch’s measured approach reflects both wisdom and determination, especially for such a young driver, as he avoids the trap of a rushed comeback. The JR Motorsports team and fans eagerly await news on whether his absence will extend beyond a single race, but Zilisch’s attitude and candid communication have brought both relief and anticipation to the NASCAR community. The coming weeks will determine when Connor Zilisch returns to the Xfinity Series, as he and his team continue focusing on a safe, steady recovery and a promising future in racing.
