Connor Zilisch is preparing for a headline-making return in 2026, setting his sights on the Rolex 24 at Daytona after a difficult end to his 2025 Xfinity Series campaign. The young driver’s determination remains strong as he aims to kick off the new year in commanding style, focusing on what promises to be a pivotal chapter in his racing career—his anticipated debut at the NASCAR Cup Series and, first, another run at Daytona International Speedway.
Setback Fuels Zilisch’s Ambition for the New Year
In 2025, Connor Zilisch, driving for JR Motorsports, thrilled racing fans and fellow competitors alike with a remarkable Xfinity Series season. Although he clinched ten race wins throughout the calendar, Zilisch narrowly missed out on the championship crown, falling short in the high-stakes finale at Phoenix Raceway to Jesse Love. Unfazed by this disappointment, the 19-year-old is already looking ahead, signaling readiness for the next stage of his journey: moving up to the NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing. Before turning his attention to the Cup car, Zilisch will revisit the track that has delivered some of his most memorable achievements.
Aiming High at the 2026 Rolex 24 with a Powerhouse Team
Connor Zilisch is set to make a bold statement as he opens 2026 by joining Action Express Racing for his third consecutive appearance at the Rolex 24 at Daytona. This time, he steps into the competitive GTP class, driving the No. 31 Cadillac with a roster of exceptional teammates—Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken, and Frederik Vesti. His participation comes just weeks before his much-anticipated Daytona 500 Cup debut.
“Connor Zilisch will race the Rolex 24 in the Action Express No. 31 Cadillac. Teammates with Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken and Frederik Vesti,”
Bob Pockrass, journalist, shared on social media.
Zilisch’s rapid progression in endurance racing is noteworthy. Back in 2024, as a 17-year-old, he won the Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) class during his debut at Daytona. He returned in 2025 in a Trackhouse-prepared GTD Pro entry, gathering experience and attention. Now, in 2026, the challenge will intensify as Zilisch takes on the flagship GTP category with Action Express at a circuit where his star already shines bright.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Connor Zilisch expressed his excitement and gratitude:
“The Rolex 24 is one of my favorite races, and I’m thrilled to be with one of the best teams in the IMSA paddock. I’m very thankful to everyone at GM and Cadillac Racing for their help in making this happen. This is such a cool opportunity. We had a solid test in November at Daytona. I really enjoyed working with all the guys on the Whelen team and can’t wait to get back there for the race.”
— Connor Zilisch, Action Express Racing driver
A High-Caliber Field Awaits at Daytona
The 2026 Rolex 24 is shaping up to be not only a personal milestone for Zilisch but also a gathering of racing talent from across disciplines. Alongside Cup drivers like Zilisch and AJ Allmendinger, the field will include a host of top INDYCAR names—such as Alex Palou, Scott Dixon, Nolan Siegel, Christian Rasmussen, Will Power, Kyle Kirkwood, Marcus Ericsson, Callum Ilott, Kyffin Simpson, Colton Herta, and James Hinchcliffe—adding to the race’s prestige and competitive intensity.
“Connor Zilisch, AJ Allmendinger are Cup drivers in the Rolex 24. INDYCAR drivers announced: Alex Palou, Scott Dixon, Nolan Siegel, Christian Rasmussen, Will Power, Kyle Kirkwood, Marcus Ericsson, Callum Ilott, Kyffin Simpson. Plus Colton Herta, James Hinchcliffe. Could be more,”
according to Bob Pockrass, journalist.
This diverse and accomplished grid promises fans of both stock car and formula racing a dynamic contest at Daytona International Speedway, where Zilisch’s adaptability and tenacity will once again be tested on one of motorsport’s grandest stages.
Creative Excellence Behind the Scenes: JR Motorsports’ Signature Style
Even as Connor Zilisch shifts focus to new challenges, the impact of his 2025 season extends beyond the trophy results. During a year marked by dramatic victories—including a memorable win over road racing specialist Shane van Gisbergen at Sonoma and overcoming injuries—one striking element was the visual identity of the No. 88 Chevrolet he piloted for JR Motorsports. These notable paint schemes came courtesy of Ryan Williams, the team’s creative director, whose work captured the spirit and dynamism of Zilisch’s campaign while shaping the public image of the entire squad.
“Great job all year. Loved the KOA car (and all the rest….),”
Jim Zilisch, father of Connor Zilisch, congratulated Williams on social media.
Williams’ influence was recognized with the Designer of the Year award at the Grand National Bash Awards, celebrating his meticulous approach to race car livery and his collaborative role within Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s team. His designs not only became an emblem of JR Motorsports’ on-track presence but also stood out every time Zilisch claimed victory lane, drawing the eyes of fans and competitors alike.
Looking Ahead: Zilisch’s Resolve and the Road to Cup Success
Connor Zilisch’s journey is emblematic of persistence and rising talent within motorsport. Despite the sting of missing out on the Xfinity title, his record of ten victories underlines an exceptional ability to challenge seasoned drivers in high-pressure situations. The leap into the top NASCAR ranks as a full-time Cup Series driver with Trackhouse Racing, alongside continued stints in endurance racing, marks the next big test for this racing prodigy.
Supported by an accomplished team at Action Express Racing, seasoned teammates like Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken, and Frederik Vesti, and an energizing presence behind the wheel, Zilisch enters 2026 with high expectations. As the Rolex 24 at Daytona draws near, all eyes will be on how he handles these dual challenges—and whether he can convert hard-earned lessons from 2025 into breakout success at both Daytona International Speedway and in the NASCAR Cup Series arena. The months ahead promise intrigue for sports fans, audiences, and readers following one of racing’s most compelling young stories.
Connor Zilisch will race the Rolex 24 in the Action Express No. 31 Cadillac. Teammates with Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken and Frederik Vesti.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) December 16, 2025
