Connor Zilisch made a stunning NASCAR Xfinity Series debut, delivering an unforgettable performance to win at Watkins Glen.
At just 18 years old, Zilisch showcased exceptional skill, overcoming penalties and outlasting Cup Series veterans in an exciting race filled with challenges. His ability to manage fuel, even when others ran out, highlighted his tactical prowess, allowing him to not only win but also pull off a burnout after the race.
The Mission 200 at Watkins Glen saw its share of drama, with an extended red flag and multiple overtime restarts, but Zilisch held his ground throughout.
He started strong by winning Stage 1 and later faced a setback when he received a penalty with 32 laps remaining. However, Zilisch was undeterred, rallying back to secure a remarkable victory.
Earlier in the race, Zilisch also dominated Stage 2, winning by more than 10 seconds. This performance followed his triumph in the ARCA race, where he beat Toyota and Joe Gibbs Racing driver William Sawalich by over 12 seconds.
Zilisch has consistently impressed, excelling in every type of race car he’s driven—whether it’s the 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, Mazda MX-5 Cup, CARS Tour, or the Truck and Xfinity Series.
Given his meteoric rise, it’s easy to imagine Zilisch thriving in a Cup Series race. With a full-time Xfinity Series seat at JR Motorsports lined up for 2025, today’s win is just a glimpse of what’s to come.
His ability to compete with and beat seasoned Cup talents like Ty Gibbs, AJ Allmendinger, Shane van Gisbergen, Ross Chastain, and Joey Logano proves he belongs at the top level of the sport.
After the race, Zilisch couldn’t contain his emotions, nearly breaking down in tears as he reflected on the effort he put into his Watkins Glen win. “I’ve worked so hard for this one,” Zilisch said, choking up during the post-race interview. “I didn’t even know if I had enough fuel to make it, but I was saving those last two laps. I’m going to enjoy this for a while.”
With multiple oval wins in the ARCA Menards Series and the CARS Tour, Zilisch has already proven he’s more than just a road course specialist. His ability to adapt to different racing styles sets him apart, and it’s clear that NASCAR’s next big star has arrived. Expect to hear much more about Connor Zilisch in the coming years as he continues to rise through the ranks.
