Connor Zilisch delivered a standout performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen International on Saturday, clinching a dramatic victory after withstanding relentless late-race challenges and multiple cautions. The 18-year-old American, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet, showcased exceptional control and strategy throughout the racing event, ultimately leading a race-high 48 laps and securing his win by a margin of 2.326 seconds over Sam Mayer.
This edition of the Connor Zilisch Xfinity Series Watkins Glen race was nothing short of eventful, as Zilisch started from the pole position and quickly established himself as the driver to beat. He dominated the opening stage, but as the laps ticked down, the competition grew fiercer with aggressive restarts, mechanical setbacks, and several on-track incidents threatening to change the outcome. One of the most significant moments came with just eight laps remaining, when Michael McDowell was spun by Austin Hill while in contention for second place. The resulting accident involved more than a dozen cars, triggered a red flag, and set up a pressure-packed sprint to the checkered flag.
Race-changing Crash Sets Up Wild Finish
The final restart of the day, with three laps left, saw Zilisch momentarily relinquish the lead to Sammy Smith, as race pace intensified. However, Zilisch quickly fought back, reclaiming the top spot on Watkins Glen’s backstretch, while Mayer surged through the field to secure second. Despite intense pursuit and the high stakes, Zilisch maintained composure, gradually extending his lead and clinching the win after a taxing 82 laps and seven full-course caution periods—stretching the contest over two and a half hours.
Top Finishers and Unforeseen Setbacks
Behind Zilisch, Sam Mayer navigated the late-race chaos to claim second, while Sammy Smith, who was among the front-runners for much of the race, staged a comeback to finish third. Austin Hill, despite being at the center of several key battles and incidents, managed fourth, with Carson Kvapil rounding out the top five following a day marked by hard-fought duels and off-track moments. Michael McDowell, who had been a contender from the outset, was forced to retire after the late multi-car crash erased his hopes. Other notable storylines included William Sawalich suffering a tire rub while inside the top ten and Shane van Gisbergen, who showed early promise but slipped back following unsuccessful pit strategies.
Zilisch’s Reaction and the Road Ahead
For Connor Zilisch, this victory was the culmination of a weekend marked by speed, poise, and the ability to handle high-pressure scenarios.
“We had such a fast car all day, but it was all about surviving those restarts and staying calm,”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver.
“I knew if I could get clean air at the end, we’d be in good shape.”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver.
Zilisch’s win at Watkins Glen International not only highlights his emergence as a potent contender in the NASCAR Xfinity Series but also adds intrigue to the championship battle as the season approaches its climax. The race underscored the unpredictable and exhilarating character of Watkins Glen, where skill, sharp strategy, and resilience are essential for success. As the series heads deeper into the closing stretch, drivers like Zilisch, Sam Mayer, and Sammy Smith remain central to the growing excitement surrounding every race weekend.
is connor zilish alright after his fall ater the race?