Few teams in NASCAR’s Xfinity Series have built a legacy as deep as JR Motorsports. On July 26, 2025, at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, that legacy reached a historic milestone. Connor Zilisch, a 19-year-old standout, delivered the organization its 100th series win in the Pennzoil 250, placing JR Motorsports into a prestigious club of Xfinity juggernauts. From humble beginnings to powerhouse dominance, JRM’s century of wins marks more than just a number—it reflects the values, vision, and perseverance that continue to fuel one of NASCAR’s most influential teams.
Key Highlights
JR Motorsports secured its 100th NASCAR Xfinity Series victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Connor Zilisch claimed the win—his third in a row and fifth of the 2025 season
Zilisch was aided by teammate Sam Mayer, who finished second after starting from the pole
Dale Earnhardt Jr. called the milestone “a testament to everyone’s effort”
JRM’s first win came in 2008 with Brad Keselowski at Nashville Superspeedway
The Road to a Century of Wins
JR Motorsports was founded in 2006 by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller, and Rick Hendrick. Based in Mooresville, North Carolina, the team evolved from part-time entries to full-time Xfinity contenders by 2008. That same year, Brad Keselowski delivered JRM’s first victory at Nashville Superspeedway, setting the tone for years of success to follow.
Built on a foundation of mentorship, competitive excellence, and homegrown culture, the team has helped launch the careers of some of NASCAR’s brightest stars. Notable alumni include Chase Elliott, Tyler Reddick, William Byron, and Noah Gragson—all of whom collected wins and playoff runs while donning the JRM colors.
The team’s first title came in 2014 with Elliott, then just 18, who captured the championship in his rookie season. JRM continued building on that success with championships and race wins across every type of track on the schedule. Veteran Justin Allgaier became a team cornerstone, while part-time entries from Cup Series drivers—including Earnhardt Jr. himself—added prestige and victories to the organization.
HISTORY AT THE BRICKYARD! pic.twitter.com/80lZpb3nwq
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) July 26, 2025
The Milestone Moment: Zilisch Delivers at Indy
Indianapolis Motor Speedway provided the perfect stage for JR Motorsports’ 100th win. In the Pennzoil 250, Zilisch fought through a thrilling and chaotic race to secure the victory. The 2.5-mile oval tested the young driver’s poise and instincts, especially in the final laps after a crash involving teammate Justin Allgaier and Cup driver Kyle Larson reshuffled the lead pack.
With less than 20 laps remaining, Zilisch took control of the field. A timely push from teammate Sam Mayer during the final restart proved crucial. Mayer, who led a large portion of the race after starting from the pole, played the team game to perfection, helping Zilisch hold off a hard-charging group that included Taylor Gray and Larson.
“This is awesome. 100 wins for JRM. Those bricks look really kissable and I’m ready to kiss them” – Connor Zilisch
The 19-year-old’s win was his fifth of the year and third straight, making him one of the hottest drivers in the series. Behind Zilisch and Mayer, Gray finished third, followed by Larson and Ryan Sieg. The moment captured the essence of JRM: raw talent, teamwork, and a culture that turns potential into results.
An Organization That Shaped a Generation
JR Motorsports’ impact on NASCAR goes far beyond statistics. It represents a launching pad for talent and a model for team culture. With leadership rooted in the Earnhardt name and operations grounded in consistent performance, JRM has become a force respected across the garage.
The numbers underscore the legacy. Justin Allgaier has brought the team its highest number of wins, becoming synonymous with the JRM brand. Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Tyler Reddick used JRM as a stepping stone to the Cup Series, while drivers like Sam Mayer and now Connor Zilisch are building their own chapters in real time.
“It’s a testament to everyone’s effort—drivers, crew, ownership, and fans. This isn’t just our win; it belongs to everyone who’s ridden along the way” – Dale Earnhardt Jr.
From emotional first wins to championship-clinching victories, the journey to 100 has been filled with iconic moments. These include Keselowski’s 2008 Nashville win, Elliott’s Texas breakthrough in 2014, and Reddick’s title-sealing drive at Homestead in 2018.
What Comes Next for JR Motorsports?
While the 100th win marks a significant milestone, JR Motorsports has no intention of slowing down. With young talents like Zilisch and Mayer in its stable, the future looks just as promising as the past. Behind them, a committed leadership team and a loyal fan base continue to fuel the organization’s drive for excellence.
The century mark isn’t just a celebration—it’s a challenge to aim higher. More championships, more records, and perhaps a path back into the Cup Series spotlight could lie ahead. For now, JRM remains a cornerstone of NASCAR’s Xfinity Series—a place where winning is tradition, and every finish line tells a new story.
News in Brief: JR Motorsports Reaches 100 Xfinity Series Wins
Connor Zilisch’s thrilling win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway gave JR Motorsports its 100th Xfinity Series victory. The 19-year-old held off teammate Sam Mayer in a dramatic late-race battle that secured his fifth win of the season. Founded in 2006, JRM has helped shape future Cup stars and collected wins with drivers like Justin Allgaier, Chase Elliott, Tyler Reddick, and William Byron. With a strong driver lineup and steady leadership, the organization continues to influence the NASCAR landscape.
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