Connor Zilisch has officially secured a full-time promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series, making headlines following a wave of attention sparked by his high-profile LEGO Titanic purchase. The news marks a significant milestone for the 19-year-old JR Motorsports driver as he prepares to join Trackhouse Racing’s Cup Series roster in 2026, a decision that reflects both his growing fan base and on-track achievements.
From LEGO Enthusiast to Rising NASCAR Star
Recently, Connor Zilisch drew widespread social media attention for sharing his excitement after buying a $679.99 LEGO Titanic set, echoing a similar hobby long associated with Dale Earnhardt Jr., his JR Motorsports team owner. Earnhardt Jr. had previously demonstrated his own LEGO passion when he showcased the completed Titanic model—an elaborate birthday present from his wife Amy and their children—that took him, with help from his family, an entire day to assemble.
Following the example set by Earnhardt Jr. and influenced by William Byron, a committed LEGO collector and Hendrick Motorsports Cup Series driver, Zilisch has openly embraced the LEGO craze. Referring to his new acquisition as a “big boy purchase,” the young driver signaled his strong enthusiasm for the hobby. These off-track moments have only increased his public profile as he advances in his racing career.
Impressive Performance Sets the Stage
Zilisch’s strong results in the NASCAR Xfinity Series have reinforced calls for his Cup Series promotion. Heading into the Pacific Office Automation 147 at Portland Raceway, his 24th start of the 2025 season, Zilisch ranks second in the driver standings with 863 points, underscoring his consistent performance this year.
His progress has included moments of both triumph and adversity. At Daytona, Zilisch completed the first 13 laps before swapping seats with Parker Kligerman due to a collarbone injury—a setback that happened after celebrating a recent victory at Watkins Glen atop his JR Motorsports Chevrolet. Despite the injury, Zilisch’s resilience and earlier race performances have maintained his momentum in the series.
Promotion to Cup Series Confirmed
Longstanding speculation among fans was put to rest with the official confirmation on Sunday, August 24, that Zilisch would ascend to a full-time NASCAR Cup Series ride. He expressed his excitement and gratitude, reflecting on his journey so far and ambitions for the future:
“This day has been a dream of mine for a long time,”
Zilisch said in a statement.
“Cup racing has been the goal since joining with Chevrolet and Trackhouse, and while I didn’t know it would come this soon, I feel like I’m ready.”
—Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
Joining Trackhouse Racing on a multi-year contract, Zilisch brings with him valuable experience, having already raced for the team three times this year at notable tracks such as Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Charlotte, and EchoPark Speedway. However, details such as his specific car number and debut race date are still to be announced by the team.
Trackhouse and Industry Leaders Praise Zilisch’s Talent
Justin Marks, the owner of Trackhouse Racing, shared a powerful endorsement of Zilisch’s abilities, highlighting the young driver’s impressive adaptability and growth within the sport:
“Connor is a rare talent that comes along every few decades,”
said Justin Marks, the owner of Trackhouse Racing.
“I have watched Connor grow from a kid racing go-karts at the Trackhouse Motorplex to an up-close seat as he beat all of us in the TransAm races a few years ago. He quickly adapted to everything we have put him in, and what he is doing with JR Motorsports in Xfinity this season is historic.”
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing Owner
Looking Ahead for Zilisch and the NASCAR Field
Zilisch’s promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series is seen as a transformative moment for Trackhouse Racing and for the broader racing community. As a Charlotte native whose career has rapidly accelerated, his rise highlights the shifting landscape of NASCAR talent development and the influence of team leaders like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Justin Marks. With the confirmation of his Cup Series move, fans and industry figureheads alike will be watching closely to see how Zilisch navigates the next chapter of his racing career.
