Connor Zilisch Xfinity Series record took center stage in St. Louis as the rookie sensation delivered a milestone victory on September 7, 2025, becoming one of the fastest drivers in series history to reach 10 wins. Competing for JR Motorsports, Zilisch’s remarkable performance not only electrified the NASCAR community, but also set new benchmarks in the sport.
Rookie Superstar Captures Victory Amid Dramatic St. Louis Return
St. Louis hosted its first Xfinity Series race since 2010, and the event was filled with high-stakes moments, including a near mishap when Zilisch’s victory lane celebration almost involved a cameraman. Representing JR Motorsports at just 19 years old, Zilisch turned heads throughout the 2025 season, racing to prominence with his display of speed and precision.
Despite facing adversity after a fall at Watkins Glen that sidelined him for one race, Zilisch rebounded to win seven of the last eight contests. This dominant streak propelled him to secure the Xfinity regular-season championship, achieving an impressive 180-point advantage over his rivals.
Zilisch’s Path to the History Books
Starting from the pole in St. Louis, Zilisch led a commanding 121 laps—more than any other competitor—to claim his ninth win of the current season and his tenth overall. His rapid rise is underlined by the record pace at which he has achieved these results.
According to NASCAR Insights, Zilisch is now the second fastest in Xfinity Series history to reach 10 victories, achieving the mark in only 29 starts. This remarkable accomplishment places him just behind legendary driver Darrell Waltrip, who reached the same milestone in 24 starts. The acknowledgment from NASCAR Insights stated,
“Connor Zilisch wins his 10th career race at St. Louis:
– 10 career wins in 29 starts is the second quickest in Series history (Darrell Waltrip: 24 starts)
– Third driver in Xfinity history to win four consecutive races (Sam Ard – 1983 & Noah Gragson – 2022)
– Winningest Rookie… pic.twitter.com/okyN6iMKTr
— NASCAR Insights (@NASCARInsights) September 7, 2025”
Racking Up Records and Comparing to Legends
Along with his rapid accumulation of wins, Zilisch has now joined an elite group as only the third driver in the history of the Xfinity Series to win four races in a row. This rare accomplishment was first set by Sam Ard— celebrated as Busch Series Champion in both 1983 and 1984— and later matched by Noah Gragson in 2022, who also earned the Most Popular Driver honor that season.
The St. Louis victory capped off what is now considered the most successful rookie campaign in the history of the series. Zilisch’s consistent dominance throughout the season and his ability to bounce back from setbacks have established him as a formidable presence on the track.
A Day of Personal and Professional Triumph
The emotional significance of the win was doubled as Zilisch secured the record-breaking achievement on his mother‘s birthday. He expressed his affection after the race by stating,
“It’s my mom’s birthday today, so happy birthday, mom. I love you,”
—Zilisch, Driver. The celebrations did not end there, as he enthusiastically announced,
“We’re gonna celebrate this and the regular season championship!”
—Zilisch, Driver.
Looking Ahead to the Playoffs
With the regular-season championship now secured, the focus for Zilisch and JR Motorsports rapidly shifts to the Xfinity Series playoffs, which will begin at Bristol next week. Zilisch, together with teammate Justin Allgaier, enters the playoff stretch as one of the favorites for the series title, as the team looks to maintain their momentum in pursuit of championship glory.
Zilisch’s historic campaign, resilience after injury, and record-setting wins have positioned him among the top names in the sport. As the playoff season approaches, NASCAR fans and competitors alike are watching closely to see if this remarkable rookie can continue his extraordinary run through the postseason.
