Connor Zilisch, at just 19 years old, is set to return to Daytona for his third appearance at the Rolex 24, where he first made history by winning the prestigious Rolex Daytona watch in 2024. He recently shared why he seldom wears his prized trophy watch in public, offering insight into its personal value and his racing journey.
The 2026 edition of the Rolex 24 will mark the beginning of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season, and Zilisch approaches the race with increased responsibility as compared to his earlier participation. Zilisch originally debuted at the Rolex 24 in 2024, clinching the LMP2 class victory while driving for Era Motorsport. Teaming up with Christian Rasmussen, Ryan Dalziel, and Dwight Merriman, his performance not only made him one of the youngest winners of the event but also earned him the revered Rolex Daytona watch, a symbol of achievement within the endurance racing community.
Why Zilisch Treats His Trophy Watch With Special Care
When discussing how often he sports the Connor Zilisch Rolex Daytona watch, Zilisch explained his reluctance to showcase it during his appearance on the NASCAR Live podcast:
“I’d say I wear it eight, ten times a year. It’s got to be a special occasion though. I think the NASCAR banquet I wore it, certain things like that. I wore it to my senior high school prom, a year and a half ago or so,”
he said. (7:32 onwards) — Connor Zilisch, Racing Driver
He further elaborated on the reasoning behind his careful choices:
“It’s still a functioning watch and although when you walk on the street people don’t know that it is a trophy. That’s kind of why I don’t wear it all the time. I feel like people seeing a 19 year old kid wearing a Rolex are gonna think man that kids just a spolt brat. But in reality to me, it’s just the trophy. I don’t wear it too often. I don’t want to lose it or scratch it.”
— Connor Zilisch, Racing Driver
Zilisch’s caution with the watch reflects his respect for what it represents. In an environment like Daytona or a formal event, the Rolex may appear, but for everyday use he prefers to keep it safe from damage or misconception.
Rising Career Highlights with Major Endurance Races
Following his 2024 Rolex 24 victory, Zilisch added another milestone by winning the 12 Hours of Sebring in the LMP2 category later that year. By 2025, he continued to diversify his racing portfolio, rejoining the Daytona field in the GTD Pro class and piloting a GT3 Trackhouse TF Sport Corvette Z06.R alongside Shane van Gisbergen, Scott McLaughlin, and Ben Keating. Although that run did not see a repeat victory, Zilisch balanced the demands of endurance racing with ongoing commitments in NASCAR.
Now preparing for the 64th edition of the Rolex 24 at Daytona scheduled for January 22-25, 2026, Zilisch enters with renewed determination and greater experience, reflecting the continuous evolution of his career.
Balancing Cup Series Aspirations and Sports Car Racing Responsibilities
Zilisch’s 2026 season starts earlier than most Cup Series rookies, jumping directly into endurance racing action before traditional Daytona Speedweeks. His off-season was marked by a disappointment—missing the FIA Bahrain Rookie Test due to a shortage of Super License points after finishing as runner-up for the Xfinity Series title, despite an otherwise dominant 2025 campaign. Nonetheless, the setback set the stage for his full-time Cup Series debut.
He soon shifted focus to testing Cadillac GTP machinery at Daytona and was subsequently confirmed to drive in Action Express Racing’s No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R for the coming Rolex 24. There, Zilisch joins veteran drivers Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken, and Frederik Vesti, embracing the formidable challenge of prototype racing. Reflecting on adapting to this new environment, he noted:
“One of, if not the most challenging things I have driven in my career. With the hybrid system and all the tools that you have, it’s very unique. It’s a different beast… In the moment, I hate it because I hate when I struggle at things… looking back at it and looking forward, it brings me a lot of excitement getting to do something… I’m going to learn a lot, and I’m going to have a lot of that in 2026 with going full-time Cup racing.”
(6:17 onwards) — Connor Zilisch, Racing Driver
The Importance of Teamwork in Zilisch’s Ongoing Growth
Alongside his personal ambitions, Zilisch values the support and expertise of his co-drivers. Looking ahead to his time with Bamber, Aitken, and Vesti, he highlighted the impact of learning from teammates with backgrounds in Formula 1 and international racing:
“Earl’s been awesome, and my other two teammates as well — Fred and Jack. It’s a great group of drivers… Guys who’ve driven F1 cars and been reserve drivers for F1 teams. Getting to learn from people like that is what makes you better.”
— Connor Zilisch, Racing Driver
His recent preparation included four structured training sessions with the Cadillac Whelen team in November, setting the foundation for a season that will see him balancing prototype endurance commitments with a new level of racing intensity in NASCAR’s top series.
What Lies Ahead for Connor Zilisch and His Rolex Daytona Ambitions
As Connor Zilisch readies himself for both the upcoming Rolex 24 and his inaugural full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series, he brings a mindset sharpened by significant achievements and valuable partnerships. The Connor Zilisch Rolex Daytona watch remains a cherished symbol, worn only on momentous occasions, serving as a reminder of his early successes and fueling his drive for future milestones on racing’s grandest stages.
