Connor Zilisch’s Watkins Glen win ended with more than a trophy. The 18-year-old’s post-race celebration turned chaotic when a misstep sent him crashing to the ground, injuring his collarbone. The awkward fall, caught on video, quickly became a talking point across NASCAR. Zilisch has since had surgery and shared a photo from the hospital wearing a yellow “FALL RISK” bracelet, turning the ordeal into a moment of humor. His mix of pain and self-deprecation sparked a wave of fan reactions—some sympathetic, others hilariously relentless.
Key Highlights
Connor Zilisch fell from his car during Watkins Glen celebration, breaking his collarbone
Underwent surgery this week to repair the injury, no return date announced
Posted hospital photo wearing “FALL RISK” bracelet, joking about the situation
Fans responded with a mix of humor and support on social media
Denny Hamlin called the fall a “collarbone breaker” on his podcast
A Celebration Gone Wrong
What began as a moment of triumph for Connor Zilisch took a painful turn seconds after the checkered flag. After parking in Victory Lane at Watkins Glen, Zilisch stepped down from his car, lost his footing, and landed hard on the pavement. The impact was immediate and awkward, with his shoulder taking the brunt.
Denny Hamlin didn’t hide his reaction after watching the replay.
“I watched it and I was like, ‘Oh my god.’ Like I’m genuinely concerned.” – Denny Hamlin
On his Actions Detrimental podcast“First thing I thought, and I told Jordan this, I said, ‘Oh man, that’s a collarbone breaker right there.’” – Denny Hamlin
Zilisch later confirmed the diagnosis and underwent surgery to repair the fracture. For now, he has not announced a timeline for his return.
Humor in the Hospital
Rather than shy away from the moment, Zilisch leaned into it. Posting a photo from the hospital, he showed his wrist with a bright yellow “FALL RISK” bracelet—the type typically reserved for patients unsteady on their feet. His caption summed it up with self-awareness and wit:
“The bracelet I got in the hospital this morning bc of anesthesia. Can’t make this stuff up😂.” – Connor Zilisch
Fans were quick to respond, with comments ranging from playful teasing to marketing suggestions.
“Should have that sewn into the cuff of all his fire suits…” – Fan comment
“There is something to be said for being able to laugh at yourself.” – Fan comment
“This is up there in terms of marketability with Delana Harvick’s ‘I wear the fire suit’ idea…” – Fan comment
Others expressed relief the injury wasn’t worse and appreciation for Zilisch’s attitude.
“I’m just glad we can meme about it now. That was f**ing brutal.” – Fan comment
A Reminder of Racing’s Risks
Injuries are a constant reality in motorsports, but few expect them to come from a celebration. NASCAR’s Next-Gen car era has already put driver safety in the spotlight, with hard impacts and unpredictable incidents prompting ongoing discussions. Adding “Victory Lane dismount” to the list of hazards feels absurd—yet here it is.
The Watkins Glen mishap was a reminder that even the moments after the race carry their own dangers. Whether it’s a mistimed jump, a slick surface, or simple fatigue, the risks are real. For Zilisch, the lesson came with surgery, rehab, and a new talking point in the garage.
News in Brief: Fans React to Connor Zilisch’s Hospital Update
Connor Zilisch’s Watkins Glen celebration turned into an unexpected trip to the hospital after a fall from his car broke his collarbone. Denny Hamlin called the moment a “collarbone breaker” after watching the replay. Zilisch underwent surgery this week and posted a hospital photo wearing a yellow “FALL RISK” bracelet, sparking fan jokes and support online. His return date is not yet announced.
ALSO READ: Red Bull’s Call and Connor Zilisch’s Future: Inside Trackhouse Racing’s Decision
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Connor Zilisch break his collarbone?
A. NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch claimed victory at Watkins Glen International but fell from his car during celebrations. The 19-year-old was taken off the track on a stretcher and later diagnosed with a broken collarbone.
Q. What happened to Connor Zilisch after the race today?
A. Connor Zilisch was transported to a local hospital after falling from his car in Victory Lane following his NASCAR Xfinity Series win at Watkins Glen International on Saturday.
Q. How did Connor Zilisch fall?
A. The 19-year-old driver was climbing onto the roof of his No. 88 Chevrolet to celebrate his victory at Watkins Glen International in New York when his left foot appeared to get caught on the window net.
Q. What NASCAR driver broke his collarbone?
A. NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch sustained a broken collarbone while celebrating his victory at Watkins Glen over the weekend. CNN Sports’ Don Riddell examines other athletes who have suffered injuries during celebrations.
