The NASCAR Xfinity Series Portland lineup has been finalized after an intense qualifying session at Portland International Raceway, where Connor Zilisch grabbed the pole position for the 2025 event with a swift lap time on August 30. Racers and fans are set for a highly anticipated contest on the challenging road course in Oregon as competitors aim to prove their dominance in this pivotal race weekend.
Highlights from the Road Course Lineup
The qualifying round unfolded with all participating drivers committed to navigating the twists and turns of the Portland International Raceway. Connor Zilisch clinched the pole at 1:13.380, setting the pace for a field eager for victory. Justin Allgaier followed closely with a time of 1:13.780, and Austin Hill posted a 1:13.797, demonstrating just how close the front runners are on this technical track.
Key names such as William Sawalich, posting 1:13.873, and Sam Mayer with 1:13.925, filled out the top five, ensuring a competitive front of the grid. Other prominent drivers like Alon Day, Nick Sanchez, Sammy Smith, and Carson Kvapil also made strong showings. Notably, Jesse Love rounded out the top ten with a respectable lap, indicating both consistency and determination from these teams.
This lineup features returning favorites such as Sheldon Creed, Jeb Burton, and Harrison Burton, alongside rising talents like Carson Kvapil and Sammy Smith. The middle of the grid sees experienced drivers like Brandon Jones, Christian Eckes, and Blaine Perkins staking their claim among a deep field. The list also includes seasoned veterans Matt DiBenedetto and Jeremy Clements, who are always contenders to watch as the race unfolds.
Noteworthy Performances and Full Starting List
Second round times underscored the unpredictable and fiercely competitive nature of the event. Zilisch continued to lead the way with a 1:13.641, edging Jesse Love, who improved to 1:13.868, and pushing Austin Hill to third in that segment with a 1:14.095. Jack Perkins, Sam Mayer, and Sammy Smith maintained strong performances, highlighting the depth of talent throughout the field.
Prominent competitors like Nick Sanchez, Christian Eckes, and Taylor Gray posted times in the 1:14 range, reflecting tight margins and an open field. Further down, names like Ryan Sieg, Anthony Alfredo, Will Brown, and Thomas Annunziata solidified their positions. The lower part of the grid saw drivers such as Alex Labbe, Vicente Salas, Josh Williams, and Takuma Koga, all aiming to capitalize on any opportunity during the main event.
The starting lineup for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Portland event demonstrates the blend of veteran experience and emerging stars that continues to define the series, with every position on the grid fiercely contested.
What’s at Stake at Portland
The 2025 edition at Portland International Raceway presents a critical moment in the season, packed with emotional stakes and intense rivalry. The presence of leading names like Connor Zilisch, Jesse Love, Austin Hill, and Justin Allgaier sets the tone for a dynamic showdown. With the NASCAR Xfinity Series Portland lineup now established, anticipation builds for strategy, technical driving, and possible surprises that this fast circuit can produce.
As all eyes turn to the upcoming race, competitors from rookies to veterans—including Alex Labbe, Matt DiBenedetto, Daniel Dye, Blaine Perkins, Thomas Annunziata, Christian Eckes, and more—prepare to tackle the famed Oregon course, each hoping to seize the momentum and secure vital points in the championship battle. The event promises both excitement for fans and strategic challenges for teams as the season progresses through its crucial stages.
