Connor Zilisch‘s meteoric NASCAR rise reached a new high as top drivers and team members gathered to celebrate his upcoming Cup Series entry with Trackhouse Racing, marking a pivotal moment for the 19-year-old talent. With accolades stacking up in both the Xfinity Series and Cup Series, Zilisch’s journey is drawing admiration throughout the paddock and signals big changes ahead for the sport.
Racing Community Honors Zilisch’s Impressive Journey
Trackhouse Racing shared a celebratory message featuring Shane van Gisbergen, Ross Chastain, Jesse Love, Zilisch’s parents, and team owner Justin Marks, gathering online to welcome Zilisch into the Cup Series ranks. The show of support highlighted the recognition Zilisch has earned from veterans and newcomers alike.
After debuting in the Xfinity Series last season, Zilisch made a stunning impact by securing a win at Watkins Glen International. This performance helped him land a full-time seat with JR Motorsports, where he has become a leading contender with six victories, six pole positions, and 13 top-five finishes across 23 starts. Zilisch’s dominance over this period has cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
His rapid ascent has impressed fellow drivers, especially after his memorable duel at Sonoma, where he outpaced Shane van Gisbergen—nicknamed SVG and recognized for his road-course mastery. Achieving 12 consecutive top-five results, Zilisch continues to set new benchmarks as he progresses through the ranks.
The announcement of Zilisch as Trackhouse Racing’s third Cup Series driver for 2026 was marked by a video tribute, underscoring the significance of this next step in his racing career.
“Hey Connor, awesome News congratulations. Welcome to the Cup series and welcome to Trackhouse. Awesome to have you as a teammate and please don’t take me out again,”
van Gisbergen said. —Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
“Hey Buddy, this so happy for you. This is a big day for for you, your friends, your family. Justin Marks. So the people that believed in you. You’ve done everything you could to make the most out of all your opportunities from a young age to now. Man, I’m just so so happy for you.”
—Jesse Love, Driver
“Congrats Connor. Super excited for you and your family. I can’t wait to do it with you next year Buddy,”
Ross Chastain added. —Ross Chastain, Driver
As emotions ran high, Zilisch reflected on his journey to the Cup Series, joining a fraternity of drivers who have watched him grow and excel rapidly in major competitions.
Anticipation Surrounds Car Number Decision for 2026
During the official announcement of his 2026 Cup Series contract at Daytona, Zilisch nearly announced his future car number before team owner Justin Marks interjected, holding off on the reveal until a later date. Marks emphasized that additional program details will be shared in the near future, encouraging fans to stay tuned for these significant announcements.
“Obviously, there’s you know questions around the program. People, numbers kind of all of that, and you know, we’re gona have those moments when we can really celebrate them. But right now, it’s about Red Bull Weather Tech and Connor,”
he said via X/Bob Pockrass. —Justin Marks, Team Owner
This season, Zilisch raced with the No. 87 in his three Cup starts, while van Gisbergen initially ran with the No. 91 during his own part-time Trackhouse appearances. Notably, van Gisbergen’s signature No. 97, a carryover from his Supercars Championship tenure, appeared in his recent Xfinity efforts with Kaulig Racing. With multiple drivers favoring different numbers, the team faces an internal decision regarding the assignment of car numbers in the seasons ahead, particularly as discussions circulate around the highly sought-after No. 88.
The Future of NASCAR Welcomes New Competition
Connor Zilisch’s rise resonates not only with teammates and rivals but also signals an exciting influx of talent for Trackhouse Racing and NASCAR more broadly. As 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on Zilisch as he prepares to make his full-time debut in the Cup Series, while his car number reveal and competitive prospects remain subjects of anticipation across the sport. His continued drive and the supportive environment fostered by figures like Justin Marks, Ross Chastain, and Shane van Gisbergen establish a promising foundation for what many expect will be a remarkable NASCAR Cup Series journey.
