Connor Zilisch, fresh off his win in the 2024 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona LMP2 class, took part in a pivotal GTP test at Daytona, showcasing his consistent rise in the world of motorsports. His recent outing with the Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship test signals a potential opportunity for a coveted fourth-driver spot in the 2026 Rolex 24. The focus keyword, Connor Zilisch GTP test Daytona, underscores the significance of his test in reinforcing his standing as a talented and adaptable driver at the famed circuit.
Zilisch’s First Experience in GTP Machinery
At just 19 years old, Connor Zilisch continues to break new ground by stepping into a GTP car for the first time, adding to a diverse resume that already spans NASCAR, prototypes, and GT cars. During the Daytona test, Zilisch completed 33 laps, exhibiting his trademark composure and sharpness behind the wheel. This session was designed to test his adaptability and technical understanding of a highly sophisticated race car.
After finishing his run in the No. 02 Cadillac, Zilisch gave insight into the differences between the various race cars he has handled. He described the sensation, stating,
“It’s very different, but at the same time similar to things I’ve driven in the past. It’s kind of a mixture between the P2 car and the GT3 I drove this year.”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver. Although he noticed that the GTP car felt
“a little heavier than the P2,”
he was quick to adapt to its added power and complexity. Zilisch noted the importance of the session for his growth, sharing,
“It was a lot of fun getting to feel it out and run a lot of laps,”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver, and explained,
“Daytona is a relatively simple track… It was a pretty chill first session.”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver. These laps took place on older Michelin tires and in mixed traffic, giving him valuable seat time in challenging conditions.
From the team’s standpoint, the test was a success. Chris Mitchum, who is the Director of Operations at Action Express Racing, praised Zilisch’s effort:
“There were no earth-shattering moments or issues at all,”
— Chris Mitchum, Director of Operations, Action Express Racing, characterizing the session as
“a good, comfortable run to get a good number of laps.”
— Chris Mitchum, Director of Operations, Action Express Racing. His comments highlighted Zilisch’s steady performance and focus on building experience rather than taking unnecessary risks.
Overcoming Recent Challenges and Setting Sights on the Future
The momentum from Zilisch’s successful Daytona GTP test comes in the wake of a recent setback. Just weeks earlier, he narrowly missed securing the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series title, a result that cost him vital FIA license points necessary for a rookie test in Bahrain with Cadillac’s Hypercar squad. This missed opportunity accentuates the rigorous nature of prototype racing’s licensing requirements at the global level, yet it has not diminished Zilisch’s ambition or progress.
Zilisch’s affinity with Daytona dates back to his 2022 debut in the MX-5 Cup, an experience he reflected on fondly:
“The first time I came to Daytona racing this weekend was in the MX-5 Cup,”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver. He continued,
“I’ve loved it ever since. Being able to race in the 24 Hours is something I’ve dreamed of as a kid.”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver. This connection to the historic circuit continues to inspire his career trajectory, emphasizing Daytona’s role as more than just a race venue, but a personal turning point in his development.
Ambitions for the Rolex 24 and Expanding Horizons
Looking ahead, Zilisch is vying for a spot as the fourth driver in Action Express Racing’s GTP lineup for the Rolex 24 in 2026, which would mark his third consecutive appearance in three different classes. Though his future participation remains to be confirmed, Zilisch expressed his excitement about the prospect:
“I don’t know if I’m doing it, but if I do end up getting to do it and I do well enough today, then that would be cool,”
— Connor Zilisch, Driver. Driving in the top class of IMSA was a meaningful experience, which he described as “such a dream.”
With IMSA considering aerodynamic rule updates for GTP cars in the coming seasons, Zilisch’s performance at Daytona becomes all the more significant in positioning him for further growth. His adaptability and strong results suggest he’s well placed for a future in both endurance racing and stock cars. Zilisch is also preparing to join the NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing in 2026, adding another challenge to his calendar but underscoring his capacity to excel across multiple racing disciplines.
Connor Zilisch’s GTP test at Daytona is more than a personal milestone; it signals a broader phase in his rapid ascent within professional motorsport. If his recent accomplishments and the skill exhibited during this pivotal test are any indication, Zilisch is poised to leave an even bigger mark at Daytona — and beyond.
