Connor Zilisch will join Trackhouse Racing for a full-time role in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026, but team owner Justin Marks has decided not to let the rookie attempt the renowned “Double” in his first year. The focus on Zilisch’s NASCAR Cup Series debut brings attention to the tradition of racing both the Coca-Cola 600 and the Indianapolis 500 on the same day, a feat only a handful have seriously pursued.
Trackhouse Racing Sets Boundaries for Zilisch’s Rookie Year
The 19-year-old Zilisch, inspired by NASCAR legends such as John Andretti, Robby Gordon, and Tony Stewart, expressed a desire to try racing both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day—a challenge often called the “Double.” Tony Stewart remains the only driver to complete the challenge, highlighting its difficulty.
Justin Marks, head of Trackhouse Racing, made clear his stance against Zilisch attempting the Double immediately upon joining the Cup Series. Marks referenced the recent experiences of Kyle Larson, who aimed for the accomplishment in 2024 and 2025 but was unable to finish both races in a single day. Marks explained,
“Watching Larson go through that — it’s dramatic and it’s risky and it can be a little uncomfortable with the timing and all that kind of stuff, so if we decide to do something like that, Connor would certainly be at the top of our list.”
—Justin Marks, Team Owner
“But to do that we have to do it the right way, and I certainly don’t want to do it his rookie year,” he added.
—Justin Marks, Team Owner
Since John Andretti first tried the Double in 1994, only Robby Gordon, Stewart, Kurt Busch, and most recently Kyle Larson have attempted the combined challenge. Marks’s decision places Zilisch among hopefuls who must wait to pursue this rare motorsport milestone.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Comments on Zilisch’s Recent Heartbreak
Following a difficult finish to his Xfinity Series campaign, Zilisch ended the season as runner-up to Jesse Love, narrowly missing the championship title. The young driver was one of only two rookies, alongside Carson Kvapil, to make it to the championship race.
Dale Earnhardt Jr., JR Motorsports team owner and NASCAR Hall of Famer, openly praised Zilisch and his No. 88 crew after their final race at Phoenix. In his remarks, Earnhardt Jr. highlighted the dedication and hard work of the team:
“Our guys worked really hard to do what they did. I’m proud of them. I’m proud of all of our teams for working as hard as they did all year.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., JR Motorsports Owner
With years of experience as both competitor and owner, Earnhardt Jr. shared his perspective on the pressures of the sport and how setbacks are a routine part of NASCAR. Reflecting on the conclusion to Zilisch’s season, he stated:
“I’ve been in this a long time, and you go on the racetrack, you’re gonna be disappointed more often than you’ll be happy. You gotta know what you’re signing up for coming here. This is the possibility of the results. So you certainly have to work harder and try to be in a better position.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., JR Motorsports Owner
This past season, Zilisch stood out by capturing the regular-season points title and winning ten races—a series best—underscoring his talent and future promise as he now prepares for the transition to NASCAR’s top level.
What Lies Ahead for Connor Zilisch with Trackhouse Racing
As the offseason begins, Zilisch’s move to Trackhouse Racing sets the stage for his next phase in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team’s protective approach, especially under the direction of Justin Marks, suggests a deliberate plan to nurture Zilisch through his first year before considering high-stakes challenges like the Double.
With past champions like Tony Stewart, Robby Gordon, John Andretti, and Kurt Busch serving as examples, and the fresh memory of Kyle Larson’s recent attempts, Zilisch’s progress with Trackhouse Racing will be closely watched. His future opportunities, including a possible Double attempt, will depend on his development and continued support from team leadership and mentors such as Dale Earnhardt Jr.
The focus now turns to 2026, when NASCAR fans and analysts will be watching Connor Zilisch’s adaptation to the Cup Series and how Trackhouse Racing shapes his early career, ensuring he is set up for long-term success in the spotlight of top-tier stock car racing.
