Connor Zilisch’s unexpected injury after his Watkins Glen Xfinity victory has left Trackhouse Racing weighing both short-term opportunities and long-term priorities. Team co-owner Justin Marks spoke candidly about the decision-making process, emphasizing caution and collaboration between sponsors, Chevrolet, and the team itself. The 19-year-old’s broken collarbone adds uncertainty to his championship pursuit, while fans have voiced their opinions—both serious and lighthearted—on what’s next for Zilisch, the No. 87 car, and Marks himself.
Key Highlights
Zilisch broke his left collarbone in a post-race victory lane accident at Watkins Glen.
Justin Marks says his return will be a group decision involving sponsors, Chevrolet, and the team.
Trackhouse Racing withdrew the No. 87 car from Sunday’s race after Red Bull’s input.
Zilisch is focused on healing but hasn’t ruled out a playoff return.
Fans reacted strongly to the situation, offering humor, nostalgia, and speculation.
Weighing the Return Timeline
Justin Marks made it clear that Zilisch’s recovery is not just a medical question but a strategic one. While the Xfinity Series is off next weekend, Daytona looms on August 22—a track known for high speeds and hard impacts. Zilisch has already endured a lower back injury from Talladega earlier in the year, and another setback could affect his long-term career. Marks noted the possibility of skipping Daytona and even the remainder of the regular season in favor of a playoff return at Bristol on September 12.
“It’s going to have to be a group decision… taking care of his development, taking care of him as a human and as an athlete.” – Justin Marks
With Zilisch positioned as a long-term cornerstone for Trackhouse, Marks stressed that no short-term race is worth jeopardizing a 20-year career. The focus, he said, is on preserving potential, not chasing headlines.
Lessons from Experience and Teammate Advice
Shane van Gisbergen, fresh off his Watkins Glen Cup win, knows the road back from a similar injury. In 2021, the New Zealander broke his left collarbone and raced just over a week later, albeit with discomfort. His insight could prove valuable to Zilisch.
“My biggest problem was the tightening of the belts. I could really feel the plate through the skin and it was a horrible feeling.” – Shane van Gisbergen
While van Gisbergen pushed through quickly, Zilisch is realistic about his own timeline.
“I don’t think I’ll be that quick, but it certainly is an injury that can heal quicker than maybe some other bones in the body.” – Connor Zilisch
He remains thankful that his head and legs were uninjured, calling the fall “definitely scary” for both himself and those watching.
How the Injury Happened and Why the No. 87 Was Pulled
The injury occurred in victory lane, where Zilisch lost his footing as water celebrations began. Standing on his car’s door, he slipped when his leg caught the window net, causing him to tumble.
“The last thing I remember was thinking I was going to break my leg.” – Connor Zilisch
With Zilisch sidelined, Trackhouse Racing had to decide whether to replace him in the No. 87 car for Sunday’s race. Ultimately, the team, sponsors, and partners opted against it.
“Red Bull speaks loudly. They’re the one that’s paying the bill… the best thing was to not dilute that program and that sponsorship.” – Justin Marks
Marks admitted his own absence from the car was partly due to forgetting his helmet at home, but the bigger factor was preserving the integrity of the program built around Zilisch.
Fans’ Reactions Range from Serious to Playful
Fan response to the situation was immediate and varied, reflecting NASCAR’s diverse community. Some focused on the sponsor’s role:
“Most interesting thing was Marks confirming that it was Red Bull’s call to withdraw the 87. They are super strict about who they let represent their brand.” – NASCAR fan reaction
Others wondered why the team didn’t simply run without Red Bull branding:
“Why not just unwrap the car and run it without Red Bull? It’s not like they have any say in that.” – NASCAR fan reaction
Some celebrated Marks’ versatility as a team owner:
“Not many teams have an owner who is not only able but also capable to jump into one of his cars and go run.” – NASCAR fan reaction
There was also humor at play:
“Marks has never watched professional wrestling and it shows. Always have your gear in the trunk!” – NASCAR fan reaction
And even nostalgic nods to other drivers once connected to Red Bull:
“Believe it or not there was a time when Scott Speed was a very talked about talent, especially as an American going into F1.” – NASCAR fan reaction
News in Brief: Trackhouse Racing’s Decision on Connor Zilisch
Connor Zilisch’s broken collarbone after a Watkins Glen victory lane accident has Trackhouse Racing weighing his Xfinity Series return. Justin Marks says the decision will involve sponsors, Chevrolet, and the team, prioritizing Zilisch’s long-term future over immediate gains. Skipping Daytona and possibly the rest of the regular season remains on the table, with a playoff return at Bristol possible. Trackhouse withdrew the No. 87 after Red Bull’s input, with Marks declining to step in. Fans reacted with humor, critique, and nostalgia.
