Connor Zilisch’s 2025 Xfinity Series journey came to a dramatic and emotional end, with the championship slipping away despite his stellar season. Zilisch, a rising star from Mooresville, North Carolina, clinched a record 10 victories but finished just outside of the top spot at the season finale in Phoenix, an outcome that left him and his fans reeling.
This promising young driver’s bid for the Connor Zilisch 2025 Xfinity Series crown was packed with remarkable performances, cementing his reputation as one of NASCAR’s most exciting talents. Leading the No. 88 Chevy, Zilisch secured 18 consecutive top-five finishes and captured four straight wins during the regular season. These feats underscored his consistency and racecraft. Despite his efforts, ending the championship two positions behind the winner marked a bittersweet close to his campaign.
“Coming up one spot short after you dominate all year long, it’s just heart-wrenching,” Connor Zilisch said (via Steven Taranto on X). “Obviously Phoenix – we were the dominant car all year long, and then you go into Phoenix and you’ve got to go and win and execute that one race to win the championship. And you work all year long for one moment, and when you come up short in that moment – It hurt me a lot.”
The heartbreak of Phoenix did not erase Zilisch’s outstanding accomplishments in his rookie year of the NASCAR Xfinity Series, soon to be known as the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026. At only 19 years old, he not only outperformed many seasoned drivers but also claimed the prestigious 2025 Sunoco Rookie of the Year award, reinforcing his ascent in the sport.
Historic Achievements and Unforgettable Milestones
Early in the season, Zilisch delivered a historic milestone for JR Motorsports by earning their 100th series victory, marking his fifth individual win for the season. This race was especially significant, as Zilisch became the youngest driver in series history to win at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, further anchoring his potential as a future leader in the sport.
“Dude, this is awesome,” Zilisch said after winning. “Those bricks look really kissable and I’m ready to kiss them. This is awesome. 100 wins for JRM.”
As the season concluded, Zilisch’s profile only grew, drawing attention from across the NASCAR community and beyond. His relentless drive and success throughout the year set the stage for his step up to the NASCAR Cup Series, keeping the sport’s fans eager for what is next.
Looking Ahead: The Cook Out Clash and the Cup Series Debut
Next for Zilisch is his highly anticipated debut in the NASCAR Cup Series, where he will compete for Trackhouse Racing. His first outing will be at the renowned Bowman Gray Stadium, serving as the backdrop for The Cook Out Clash—a 200-lap contest scheduled on February 1, 2026. Coverage begins at 8 pm ET on FOX, with live updates on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, ensuring that fans won’t miss a moment of Zilisch’s next chapter.
Red Bull Powers Zilisch’s Step Up with Trackhouse Racing
Trackhouse Racing has announced a powerhouse partnership with Red Bull, bringing even more momentum to Zilisch’s maiden Cup Series campaign. Red Bull, now the official energy drink and primary sponsor of Zilisch’s No. 88 team through 2026, will also support his teammate Shane van Gisbergen. The sponsorship will be featured prominently across 25 points races, reinforcing the team’s growing profile.
Zilisch’s Cup Series journey with Red Bull will begin at the prestigious Daytona 500, the crown jewel event of NASCAR. At 19, Zilisch will enter the iconic race as the youngest driver to participate since Joey Logano’s 2009 appearance. Meanwhile, Gisbergen’s Red Bull debut is set for EchoPark Speedway later in February.
“It’s so cool to be driving no. 88 in the Cup Series,” Connor Zilisch said in a statement. “The number is historic and so many great drivers have driven it. I certainly have big shoes to fill but I can’t wait to get the season started. I love the blue streaks across the side of car. The dark matte blue allows the light blue streaks to pop. I’m excited to have it on track next year.”
Red Bull’s inaugural season with Trackhouse Racing in 2025 was a resounding success, with Zilisch and Gisbergen collecting 16 combined victories across both the Xfinity and Cup Series. The diverse support from key sponsors and dedicated organizations such as Trackhouse Racing and JR Motorsports has played a vital role in propelling Zilisch’s rapid progression through the ranks.
What Lies Ahead for Connor Zilisch and NASCAR
The NASCAR community now awaits Zilisch’s transition to Cup racing, joining top names and key entities like Joey Logano and Shane van Gisbergen. His track record at legendary venues such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Phoenix, Bowman Gray Stadium, and his upcoming appearance in events like the Daytona 500 only add to the anticipation. With media coverage on FOX, live radio through MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, and the backing of iconic brands like Red Bull and Sunoco, Connor Zilisch’s 2025 Xfinity Series legacy stands as a testament to intense competition and rising talent.
As the NASCAR Xfinity Series approaches its rebranding as the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and the sport readies itself for a new generation of racers, all eyes remain fixed on Zilisch. Whether it’s future triumphs, rookie award wins, or new partnerships, his journey signals an energetic chapter for NASCAR and its fans.
Trackhouse Racing just posted a video to their YouTube page where Connor Zilisch opened up about losing the Xfinity Series title in Phoenix as part of the unveil of his Daytona 500 car.
"Coming up one spot short after you dominate all year long, it's just heart-wrenching.… https://t.co/YMJwZHqdXy pic.twitter.com/w7nopEyhPK
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) November 26, 2025
