Trackhouse Racing, led by owner Justin Marks, has confirmed its 2026 NASCAR Cup Series driver lineup, crew chiefs, and car numbers, welcoming Connor Zilisch for his much-anticipated move to full-time Cup racing. Zilisch will join Shane van Gisbergen at the Concord, North Carolina-based team, marking a significant new chapter for both the young driver and the organization and positioning the Connor Zilisch Trackhouse Racing 2026 partnership firmly in the sport’s spotlight.
Zilisch Steps Into Full-Time Cup Role with Trackhouse
At just 19 years old, Connor Zilisch arrives at Trackhouse Racing following a breakout rookie season in the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series. He will drive the #88 Chevrolet in 2026, a car formerly piloted by Shane van Gisbergen during the previous season. Accompanying Zilisch on his Cup debut will be crew chief Randall Burnett, tasked with helping the rookie adapt and compete at NASCAR’s highest level.
The addition of Zilisch ushers in increased expectations for the team, as he takes the wheel of a car number with a rich legacy, not only within Trackhouse but in NASCAR history at large. Justin Marks’s strategic moves aim to position Trackhouse as a formidable competitor in the coming season.
Shane van Gisbergen Receives Special Car Number for Second Year
Shane van Gisbergen, set for his second full season as a Cup driver, will shift to the #97 Chevrolet. This number holds personal significance, as it was used by his father, Robert van Gisbergen, and became iconic during Shane’s Supercars Championship career, in which he secured three titles. Van Gisbergen will continue working with crew chief Stephen Doran as he prepares for another year with the team.
“It’s awesome to carry a car number that is so special to me. When Justin [Marks, owner] offered me the opportunity to change to the No. 97, it was pretty special. It’s a number that means a lot to my family and me. My dad used it in his racing career, so when I started racing, I wanted to use it too, and then basically I’ve used the No. 97 in everything since. I’ve had many special moments with that number, and it’s cool to get the opportunity to create even more in the Cup Series.”
– Shane van Gisbergen, Driver
The sentimental value behind this decision underscores the team’s respect for racing heritage and personal milestones, aligning with Trackhouse’s commitment to its drivers’ personal narratives and history.
Zilisch Embraces the Legacy of the #88 Chevrolet
Connor Zilisch’s new #88 car is steeped in NASCAR tradition, having been driven by legends such as Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Darrell Waltrip, Bobby Allison, and Dale Jarrett. Zilisch, named the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Rookie of the Year, has voiced both pride and the weight of responsibility at inheriting the storied number as he embarks on his full-time Cup journey.
“It’s cool for me to carry on the legacy of the [No.] 88 number. That number has quickly become important to me and the history of that number in the sport with Shane, Dale [Earnhardt] Jr., Dale Jarrett, and everyone who has run the [No.] 88. I certainly have big shoes to fill but hopefully I’ll be able to carry that on.”
– Connor Zilisch, Driver
With the support of Randall Burnett as crew chief, Zilisch aims to continue the tradition of excellence associated with the #88, while forging his own legacy on the Cup circuit.
Continuity and New Leadership for Trackhouse’s Cup Roster
Ross Chastain will remain at the wheel of the #1 Chevrolet, maintaining stability for Trackhouse Racing. For the 2026 season, Chastain will work with Brandon McSwain, a new addition from Hendrick Motorsports, who steps in as crew chief. Their partnership begins at the season-opening race at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1, 2026, highlighting Trackhouse’s focus on both consistency and fresh leadership in its Cup campaign.
What the 2026 Season Could Mean for Trackhouse Racing
The finalized 2026 lineup shows Trackhouse Racing’s strategic blend of legacy, youth, and international talent. With Connor Zilisch’s ascension, Shane van Gisbergen’s move to a meaningful car number, and Ross Chastain’s ongoing presence, the organization aims to compete at the highest level while respecting the sport’s traditions. As Zilisch debuts in Cup, all eyes will be on how the team’s new direction influences both their competitive results and the further development of its star drivers.
Trackhouse Racing has announced its driver/crew chief and car number lineup for 2026:
➤ Ross Chastain and Brandon McSwain on the No. 1
➤ Connor Zilisch and Randall Burnett on the No. 88
➤ Shane van Gisbergen and Stephen Doren on the No. 97— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) November 7, 2025
