Connor Zilisch is set to compete full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing, taking on the renowned No. 88 car next season. The move, highly anticipated since his strong Xfinity Series performances, marks the beginning of a new era for the Connor Zilisch NASCAR Cup Series journey, building on the success and history associated with the No. 88.
Zilisch Steps Into a Storied NASCAR Legacy
After achieving 10 Xfinity Series victories last season but falling short in the Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway, Connor Zilisch now prepares for his first full campaign at NASCAR’s top level. Trackhouse Racing initially eyed him to fill Daniel Suarez‘s seat with the No. 99, but he will instead champion the No. 88, an iconic number steeped in NASCAR heritage.
Dale Earnhardt Jr., a pivotal figure in NASCAR and former driver of the No. 88 Chevrolet, sent Zilisch a heartfelt letter, emphasizing the weight and meaning behind the number. Earnhardt Jr. reflected on legends such as Darrell Waltrip, Dale Jarrett, and SVG, all of whom contributed to the number’s legacy. The letter also acknowledged Zilisch’s role in charting a new chapter for the No. 88 at the Cup Series level.
Teammate Shane van Gisbergen, who clinched the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year honor, will campaign the No. 97 Chevrolet, a number that holds personal resonance for the van Gisbergen family. Robert van Gisbergen, Shane’s father, also competed using No. 97, intertwining the family legacy with the sport.
It’s a number that mean a lot to my family and me,
— Shane van Gisbergen, via team press release
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Meaningful Gesture Welcomed by Zilisch
The transition for Zilisch is underscored by emotional support from leaders and peers. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s letter, which was shared publicly on social media, celebrated Zilisch’s contributions to JR Motorsports and his ability to invigorate the No. 88’s legacy. Earnhardt Jr. summed up his feelings by stating that Zilisch has the talent and heart, and that the next chapter of the No. 88 story belongs to him.
The letter from Dale Jr. to Connor Ziilsch was really neat as the young driver will continue the legacy of the No. 88 in the NASCAR Cup Series next season.
“Dear Connor,
The #88 has always carried a little extra meaning for me. It’s not just a number—it’s a legacy, defined by… https://t.co/zDHlNZ6F2n
— Taylor Kitchen (@_TaylorKitchen_) November 7, 2025
As Zilisch takes on his new role, there is a strong sense of optimism about what he can bring to Trackhouse Racing and the NASCAR Cup Series as a whole, continuing the tradition set by legends like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Dale Jarrett.
Recent Moves and Additions Across NASCAR Teams
Elsewhere in NASCAR, there have been more shakeups as teams prepare for the upcoming season. The countdown has officially begun, with 100 days marking the wait until the 2026 Daytona 500. Hendrick Motorsports revealed that Corey Day will drive the No. 17 Chevrolet on a full-time basis for the next campaign.
Another major development comes from Viking Motorsports, who have brought on Parker Retzlaff as a driver and Danny Elfand as crew chief, bringing energy and fresh goals to the lineup.
Thankful for this opportunity @VKNGMotorsports has given me. Ready to get to work👊🏼 Stoked to work with Danny Elfand & team to win some races! #somethingtoprove https://t.co/WckqjQsW3c
— Parker Retzlaff (@Parker79p) November 7, 2025
This wave of new team assignments and driver advancements gives fans much to be excited about as the sport gears up for a thrilling 2026 season.
What the Future Holds for Connor Zilisch and NASCAR
The appointment of Connor Zilisch to the No. 88 in the NASCAR Cup Series is a pivotal moment, as the history-laden car number finds a new torchbearer. With influential figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr. expressing faith in him, and the renewed commitment from teams such as Trackhouse Racing, the upcoming season promises potential milestones both for Zilisch and the greater NASCAR community. As anticipation builds for the Daytona 500 and beyond, all eyes are on how Zilisch and the new generation of drivers will shape the next chapter of NASCAR’s storied legacy.
The letter from Dale Jr. to Connor Ziilsch was really neat as the young driver will continue the legacy of the No. 88 in the NASCAR Cup Series next season.
"Dear Connor,
The #88 has always carried a little extra meaning for me. It’s not just a number—it’s a legacy, defined by… https://t.co/zDHlNZ6F2n
— Taylor Kitchen (@_TaylorKitchen_) November 7, 2025
Thankful for this opportunity @VKNGMotorsports has given me. Ready to get to work👊🏼 Stoked to work with Danny Elfand & team to win some races! #somethingtoprove https://t.co/WckqjQsW3c
— Parker Retzlaff (@Parker79p) November 7, 2025
