Kevin Harvick mentors Connor Zilisch NASCAR, and this collaboration has culminated in a major breakthrough: Connor Zilisch, just 19, will drive full-time for Trackhouse’s No. 99 Chevrolet in 2026. The rising talent, fresh off a dominant stint in the Xfinity Series, credits Harvick’s belief and support as critical to his historic climb.
Trackhouse Entrusts No. 99 Chevrolet to Young Standout
After racking up seven wins in his Xfinity rookie campaign, Connor Zilisch’s rapid rise through the NASCAR ranks caught the attention of many, but it was Trackhouse that offered him the next step: a full-time Cup Series ride, beginning in 2026. Zilisch’s broad racing pedigree, established through European karting success and triumphs in Trans-Am and MX-5 series, made him a sought-after addition to the Cup roster. His fearless racing style and on-track determination distinguished him long before reaching NASCAR’s top series.
Kevin Harvick’s Early Belief Shapes a NASCAR Journey
Kevin Harvick, the 2014 NASCAR Cup champion, recognized Zilisch’s promise from early encounters at karting practice sessions involving Harvick’s son, Keelan. That initial meeting led Harvick to take an active role in guiding Zilisch’s young career, believing the teenager had the potential for greatness in professional racing. As Zilisch moved up the NASCAR ladder, Harvick’s involvement intensified, offering key advice and encouragement at crucial moments.
Congrats @ConnorZilisch! From the very beginning it was easy to see you had what it takes, on and off the track, to make it all the way… https://t.co/l5sKIAUeZ1
— Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Zilisch Acknowledges Support from Family and Mentor
Zilisch recently expressed gratitude for Harvick’s confidence in his abilities and the support provided long before his name became well known in the sport. When Trackhouse officially announced Zilisch’s Cup Series deal, the young driver publicly thanked his parents for standing by him throughout the hardships of pursuing a professional racing career and addressed the personal sacrifices made along the way.
My parents have been behind me since day one, through every moment, the good, the bad,
— Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
There were many times I questioned why I left school, left my friends, to make this commitment to go to the Cup Series and try and chase a dream of racing in motorsports. I never knew what was ahead of me.
— Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
The pivotal moment in Zilisch’s journey came when Harvick offered direct advice to his family about the future of their son’s racing career. This conversation steered the Zilisch family away from their initial academic plans and fully committed them to supporting Connor’s motorsports ambitions.
Kevin saw something in me, and he went up to my dad one day and said, ‘What’s your plan with Connor?’ My dad said, ‘We’re gonna race a couple more years, then go to college.’ Kevin said, ‘No, we’re gonna try something here.’
— Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
The advice proved pivotal as Zilisch advanced through the ranks, securing his position as one of NASCAR’s brightest prospects.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Throughout his journey, Harvick has not only served as an advisor but also emphasized the importance of long-term thinking, especially when injuries or setbacks threatened Zilisch’s championship goals. Following an injury at Watkins Glen, Harvick cautioned Zilisch against returning prematurely for the sake of chasing an Xfinity Series title, emphasizing a focus on future Cup Series ambitions for the young driver’s longevity in racing.
Zilisch ultimately returned at Daytona, displaying his trademark grit by capturing a win with teamwork from substitute driver Parker Kligerman, who took over after the initial laps.
What Lies Ahead for Zilisch and Trackhouse
With a full-time Cup seat secured, Zilisch joins the Trackhouse stable poised for the next phase in his racing career. His relationship with Harvick, rooted in early mentorship and unwavering belief, stands as a testament to the difference a veteran’s guidance can make in realizing youthful talent. As the motorsports world watches this new partnership unfold, the next chapters promise to further validate Harvick’s faith and inspire the next generation of NASCAR hopefuls.
