Connor Zilisch, fresh off an impressive run in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, is diving headfirst into a new test as he prepares for his first hands-on experience with the IMSA Cadillac at Daytona’s road course, underlining how the Connor Zilisch IMSA Cadillac test will shape his evolving racing career. The transition underscores how quickly the 2025 Rookie of the Year is adapting, as he pivots from stock cars to the technologically advanced challenge offered by sports car racing just weeks after the end of his NASCAR season.
Zilisch Transitions from NASCAR to IMSA Prototype Racing
After a demanding NASCAR schedule, where taking time off appears to be a foreign concept, Connor Zilisch has shifted gears quickly. He joined Cup Series driver AJ Allmendinger at the Daytona International Speedway, both preparing for January’s Rolex 24 at the iconic venue known as the ‘World Center of Racing.’ Just weeks prior, Zilisch narrowly missed the Xfinity Series Championship but captured widespread attention as the series’ standout rookie for 2025.
Despite his racing momentum, Zilisch acknowledges that the learning curve ahead is substantial. Before his first laps behind the wheel of a Cadillac V-Series.R, he openly discussed the striking differences between NASCAR stock cars and their IMSA counterparts, which are known for their sharper design focus and higher-performing technology. As Zilisch expressed,
“The capability is obviously a lot different, a lot more downforce, lighter, a lot of power. So maybe the power might be a similar feeling for me. But outside of that, it’s really different,”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver.
The distinctions are clear: while NASCAR cars are heavier with naturally aspirated V8 engines generating around 670 horsepower and traditional H-pattern shifters, IMSA prototypes like the Cadillac are markedly lighter, feature high-tech elements such as paddle shifters and advanced braking systems, and are designed for maximum aerodynamic downforce. For Zilisch, acclimating to these new demands is a significant step in broadening his racing potential and skills.
First Taste of the Cadillac V-Series.R and the Rolex 24 Ambition
For his debut IMSA Cadillac session, Zilisch completed 33 laps in the No. 31 Action Express Racing car. The spotlight is now cast on how fast Zilisch, widely regarded as a quick study, can master the nuances of GTP sports cars before the intense January event at Daytona. The Rolex 24, scheduled for January 24-25 at Daytona International Speedway, poses a unique endurance challenge with career-defining implications for drivers.
Zilisch’s connection to the Rolex 24 is deeply rooted. He reflected on his passion for the event, stating,
“I always love this race, it’s why I keep coming back. It’s why I want to do it every year, no matter how busy I am,”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver. Notably, in the 2025 edition, he teamed up with Shane van Gisbergen, Ben Keating, and Scott McLaughlin, finishing 24th overall. His earlier foray into the event was remarkable; he clinched an LMP2 class victory as a 17-year-old rookie, foreshadowing his bright future in endurance sports car racing.
The pressure—and excitement—now centers on how quickly Zilisch can apply his natural skill and prior racing successes to meet the challenges of top-tier IMSA competition, surrounded by experienced winners and determined teammates.
Support from Kampgrounds of America Signals Renewed Partnerships
Adding to the storyline is Zilisch’s ongoing relationship with major sponsors as he enters new racing chapters. Kampgrounds of America, Inc. confirmed its return as an official partner for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series alongside JR Motorsports. This collaboration emphasizes the strong ties between the motorsports community and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, reflecting the broad fan engagement seen at NASCAR events.
Kampgrounds of America will be visible as an associate partner on several JR Motorsports cars throughout the upcoming season and will serve as the title sponsor for Zilisch’s No. 1 Chevrolet entry at a key race. Additionally, the partnership extends to supporting fellow driver Wyatt Miller, connecting the company’s camping brand with a wider circle of NASCAR personalities.
For Zilisch, the sponsor’s commitment feels like a return to his racing roots. As he said in anticipation of the 2026 campaign,
“It’s so cool to be back in the KOA Chevrolet in 2026,”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver. He continued,
“I really enjoyed continuing to get to know everyone from KOA this past season and learning more about their business. KOA has been a big part of my NASCAR career from the very beginning, and I am proud to wear their colors again next season,”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver.
The collaboration resonates beyond the racetrack. KOA, which operates more than 500 locations across the United States and Canada, has become a staple for race fans seeking camping options near major circuits, including sites close to many venues on the 2026 NASCAR schedule. Whether camping in tents, RVs, or cabins, the company’s widespread availability appeals to fans following the racing season from event to event.
KOA President and CEO Toby O’Rourke repeated the company’s enthusiasm, noting,
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with JR Motorsports,”
—Toby O’Rourke, President and CEO. O’Rourke further explained,
“Racing and camping bring people together through adventure, community, and unforgettable experiences. This collaboration connects KOA with motorsports fans in a unique way—enhancing their race weekends and inspiring them to explore the great outdoors,”
—Toby O’Rourke, President and CEO.
Kampgrounds of America’s association with NASCAR embodies the intersection of outdoor adventure and motorsport, providing memorable experiences for both fans and drivers. Fans can look forward to seeing Zilisch compete in the KOA-branded No. 1 Chevrolet when NASCAR heads to Chicagoland Speedway on July 4, 2026, a date sure to attract camping enthusiasts and motorsports followers alike.
Looking Forward: Zilisch’s Ambitions and Fan Engagement
Connor Zilisch’s rapid rise illustrates a new era of crossover athletes in American motorsports, where versatile drivers transition between major series such as NASCAR and IMSA. His participation in the upcoming Rolex 24 marks another chapter in his evolving repertoire, joined by accomplished teammates like AJ Allmendinger, winners from the world of sports cars, and supported by loyal partners such as KOA and JR Motorsports.
The 31 Action Express Racing team, with a blend of youth and experience, is poised for a significant run at Daytona. All eyes will be on Zilisch’s performance as fans from the racing world, including those within the NASCAR, IMSA, and outdoor enthusiast communities, await results from his high-intensity IMSA Cadillac test. As the motorsport landscape grows more interconnected, the passion and emotional connection shared by fans, sponsors, and drivers ensure that the significance of these events extends far beyond the checkered flag.
He's a quick learner behind the wheel.
Hear from #Rolex24 winner @ConnorZilisch ahead of his first @IMSA test session driving the Cadillac V-Series.R ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/iu681wvAxn
— Rolex 24 Hours (@Rolex24Hours) November 21, 2025
