Connor Zilisch secured his seventh Xfinity Series race win at Daytona International Speedway, but the aftermath of his victory gave rise to an unusual discussion about the championship trophy, following a key role played by substitute driver Parker Kligerman. The outcome not only impacted the championship standings but also triggered conversation among fans and team members about who deserved the winner’s prize, further elevating the significance of the Connor Zilisch Daytona Xfinity Series victory.
During the race, Zilisch started in the JRM No. 88 car but was replaced by Parker Kligerman after only 12 laps, a move enabled by a strategic rulebook clause. Kligerman, stepping in mid-race, drove to a maiden Xfinity Series victory, a result that few expected from the Charlotte-born stand-in. Despite this, the race win was officially credited to Zilisch, though celebrations at Victory Lane were led solely by Kligerman, adding a layer of complexity to the post-race proceedings.
Unexpected Substitution and Unlikely Triumph
Prior to Daytona, Zilisch’s season took an unexpected turn when an unfortunate incident during post-race celebrations at Watkins Glen caused him to fracture his collarbone. Many observers assumed this injury would dash his regular-season championship hopes and keep him sidelined from driving duties for an extended period. However, JRM’s decision to utilize the rulebook and allow a substitute driver enabled Zilisch to begin the race before handing over the wheel to Kligerman at the first opportunity.
Though few anticipated a strong finish under these circumstances, Kligerman capitalized on the opportunity. After completing the remainder of the race, he claimed his inaugural Xfinity Series win, a result credited in the record books to Zilisch due to the official starting driver rule.
This rare scenario prompted the ongoing debate: who should keep the Daytona winner’s trophy? The discussion gained traction online and among racing insiders after post-race celebrations were completed by Kligerman, who had delivered the race-winning drive in Zilisch’s absence.
Trophy Decision Leads to Amusing Exchange
Parker Kligerman addressed the matter by revealing that he did not wish to retain the trophy, prompting an entertaining response from Zilisch:
“He told me, he said he’s not a trophy guy and I guess that’s why Dale [Earnhardt] Jr. hired him. He said I get to keep this thing.”
—Connor Zilisch
Kligerman, now known for his media presence and as a pit reporter within stock car racing, has made occasional appearances in the Truck Series this season, yet has not pursued a full-time racing comeback. This development has allowed Zilisch to maintain his record of victories, as well as his place as the championship points recipient for the Daytona Xfinity Series race.
Kligerman Shares Story of Unexpected Opportunity
Kligerman’s return to the cockpit was not anticipated, especially after finishing tenth in last year’s standings and retiring from full-time racing. Only a few sporadic starts in the Truck Series hinted at his ongoing involvement in professional racing. However, the injury to Zilisch at Watkins Glen provided Dale Earnhardt Jr., the team owner, an opening to offer Kligerman a substitute role in the No. 88 car. Kligerman described how the call came unexpectedly as he was preparing to depart for vacation:
“It’s different in every way, because I didn’t expect to get a call from (team owner) Dale (Earnhardt) Jr. on the day I was leaving for vacation, saying ‘Hey, man, would you come drive this thing?’ I hate the circumstances for Connor.”
—Parker Kligerman
“He’s an amazing generational talent. I feel honored to have gotten the call to grace the seat that he’s been in, that Kyle Larson’s been in. … For me, it’s such a ‘me’ thing that this will not be on Racing Reference at all.”
—Parker Kligerman
Kligerman’s comments further highlighted both his respect for Zilisch and the bittersweet nature of stepping in as a substitute under challenging circumstances.
Implications for Standings and the Road Ahead
Despite missing significant race time due to injury, Zilisch remains in close contention for the regular-season championship, currently trailing Justin Allgaier by just three points at the top of the standings. His unique situation—starting races, yielding to fit substitutes, yet still accruing points—exemplifies the adaptability teams must pursue amid adversity.
The outcome of the Connor Zilisch Daytona Xfinity Series victory underscores the unpredictable, dramatic twists inherent to motorsports. It also brings into focus the camaraderie, professionalism, and humor displayed by drivers like Zilisch and Kligerman, as well as the strategic thinking of organizations such as JRM. As the season progresses, the battle among drivers including Zilisch and Allgaier is expected to intensify, while the trophy itself remains a symbol of teamwork and the unexpected paths to success.
