Connor Zilisch wins Roval pole after an impressive qualifying performance at Charlotte, bringing fresh intensity to the NASCAR Xfinity Series as JR Motorsports controlled the session on October 4, 2025. Zilisch, a 19-year-old standout, claimed his eighth pole position this season, highlighting his continued dominance on road courses and cementing his role as a major force on the circuit.
Zilisch Leads JR Motorsports in Complete Qualifying Sweep
Connor Zilisch’s comfort with the technical and unpredictable Roval road course was once again clear, as he led JR Motorsports to occupy the top five spots in qualifying. Justin Allgaier, Connor Mosack, Sammy Smith, and Carson Kvapil followed closely behind, giving the organization a distinct advantage going into the race. Zilisch’s qualifying pace was exceptional, with his No. 88 car clocking in nearly a full second faster than the next closest competitor.
The Roval at Charlotte is known for its challenging oval-road mix, making every session intense and often unpredictable. Spectators and rivals alike now focus on whether anyone can challenge Zilisch during the race itself, as his road course abilities have made him a frequent pole winner across many tracks this season.
“It’s another pole victory for @ConnorZilisch at Charlotte!@JRMotorsports claims the first FIVE positions pic.twitter.com/FyOCwOy0qh”— The CW Sports, October 4, 2025
Strong Performances from Rivals and Notable Qualifiers
Outside the JR Motorsports sweep, Corey Day delivered a standout sixth-place qualifying effort, especially considering his experience level at this tricky venue. The performance essentially gave JRM control of the first three rows, with Day and a Hendrick Motorsports driver securing the remaining lead spots.
Further down the grid, attention turns to Austin Green and Kaz Grala, both part-timers lining up on Row 5. Known for their ability to capitalize on chaos, both drivers are seen as potential wildcards in the fight for a Roval win, given their talent and speed demonstrated throughout the season.
With Zilisch starting from the front, the race promises unpredictability, as the Roval is famous for upending even the most orderly grids with its frequent surprises and incidents.
“Connor Zilisch on the pole for the 8th time this season. Can anyone in the NASCAR Xfinity Series stop him at the Roval? pic.twitter.com/GkHk84IcpZ”— Jonathan Howard, October 4, 2025
Playoff Implications and High Stakes for Remaining Spots
With his qualifying success, Connor Zilisch joins Justin Allgaier as drivers locked into the Round of 8 by points, following Brandon Jones’s earlier win at Kansas. This leaves five open playoff spots and nine drivers in contention, increasing the pressure on those yet to secure their postseason future.
Any playoff competitor not already clinched can advance with a win at Charlotte, yet beating the JR Motorsports lineup, particularly Zilisch, appears challenging based on their qualifying form. The race, however, is unlikely to follow a predictable script, given how much the track condition shifts as evening approaches.
Unpredictability Remains as Race Approaches
The Roval’s history of dramatic moments was underscored in recent events, including Corey Heim and Layne Riggs’s crash on Lap 1 the previous Friday. Despite setbacks, surprising victories like the BearBond-covered 11 truck in overtime illustrate the track’s potential for unexpected outcomes.
Connor Zilisch has demonstrated he is among the toughest opponents in the field, but as the session turns to racing, nothing is certain. Fans and competitors alike now wait to see who will capitalize on the opportunities this complex course provides, with Zilisch, JR Motorsports, and a hungry field all fighting for glory at the NASCAR Xfinity Series event in Charlotte.
It's another pole victory for @ConnorZilisch at Charlotte!@JRMotorsports claims the first FIVE positions 😱 pic.twitter.com/FyOCwOy0qh
— The CW Sports (@TheCW_Sports) October 4, 2025
Connor Zilisch on the pole for the 8th time this season. Can anyone in the NASCAR Xfinity Series stop him at the Roval? pic.twitter.com/GkHk84IcpZ
— Jonathan Howard (@Jondean25) October 4, 2025
