Panini America, recognized globally as the largest producer of sports and entertainment collectibles, has formalized an exclusive, multi-year agreement with rising NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch. This Connor Zilisch Panini partnership comes as Zilisch, now 19, embarks on his first full-time campaign in the NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing, piloting the No. 88 Chevrolet and preparing for his debut at the Daytona 500 this weekend.
New Trading Card Features and Fan Engagement Initiatives
Through this collaboration, Zilisch will be prominently featured across Panini’s full suite of NASCAR trading cards, ensuring fans can collect his cards throughout the season. He will also appear on the Panini Instant platform, which highlights standout moments from top performances, extending through the 2026 NASCAR season. In addition, Panini plans to incorporate Zilisch into various marketing activations, further connecting him with collectors and NASCAR supporters.
“Connor is a very promising young driver, who has already proven himself as a winner on the track,”
said Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations at Panini America.
“He has a world of potential, and we look forward to working with him as he begins his full-time career on the NASCAR Cup Series, and to sharing his products with NASCAR fans.”
– Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations
Zilisch’s Remarkable Racing Achievements
In the previous NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, Zilisch captured ten wins and secured a second-place finish in the Championship standings, earning the Rookie of the Year award. During the 2025 season, he also competed in three NASCAR Cup Series events with Trackhouse Racing, achieving a best result of 11th at Atlanta Motor Speedway, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s top young drivers.
Strong Support and Anticipation for the Collaboration
“Panini is a great fit for me and I’m really excited to be partnering with them,”
said Zilisch.
“I can’t wait to see the Panini cards this season, and I hope fans really enjoy them.”
– Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
Panini America, already the official trading card partner of NASCAR, adds Zilisch to its roster of exclusive athletes that includes three-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Joey Logano. The company has long-history collaborating with NASCAR’s drivers and teams, offering fans unique collectibles tied to major moments in the sport.
What This Means for Fans and the Industry
This exclusive partnership demonstrates Panini’s commitment to the growth of motorsports collectibles and highlights Connor Zilisch’s emergence as a new figure in NASCAR. As the 2026 season unfolds and Zilisch embarks on his full-time Cup Series career, collectors and racing enthusiasts can anticipate new cards, promotional events, and closer engagement with one of NASCAR’s exciting young talents.
