Connor Zilisch Joins NASCAR Cup Series as Rising Star in 2026

Connor Zilisch, a prominent prospect in NASCAR history, is set to enter the Cup Series in 2026, showcasing his remarkable talent and engaging personality. Hailing from North Carolina, Zilisch, who stands just under six feet tall, has already established an impressive racing résumé. He signed as a Red Bull athlete at the age of 18 and has quickly made a name for himself by winning races across the United States and Europe, including an astonishing ten victories in his historic rookie season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Trackhouse Racing, which introduced Zilisch to NASCAR in 2024, will field him in the No. 88 Chevrolet next year, with major partnerships from Red Bull and WeatherTech. The excitement surrounding Zilisch is palpable among industry veterans. Three-time Cup Series champion Joey Logano noted, “I think he’s better than I was at that age, and he seems to be more mature than I was at that age.” Logano emphasized the importance of staying grounded, stating that racing at the Cup Series level presents a unique set of challenges that can be overwhelming for young drivers.

Logano’s experience as a young driver in the sport serves as a valuable lesson for Zilisch. In the early 2000s, Logano garnered significant attention for his talent, earning the nickname “Slice Bread” from two-time NASCAR Xfinity Series champion Randy LaJoie. Like Zilisch, Logano was signed by Joe Gibbs Racing as a teenager and faced the pressure of competition when he entered the Cup Series earlier than expected, struggling to adjust to the heightened level of competition.

Another notable figure in Zilisch’s narrative is Kyle Busch, who similarly entered the Cup Series with significant expectations. Busch made his national series debut at 16 years old and quickly garnered success, winning five races in his rookie season. However, he cautioned Zilisch about the challenges of transitioning to the Cup Series, stating, “It’s a rude awakening.” Busch highlighted that the jump from the Xfinity Series to the Cup Series is substantial and can catch many drivers off guard.

Zilisch’s background in racing is extensive. He began karting at the young age of five, achieving notable success, including winning the FIA Karting Academy Trophy as a 14-year-old, making him the first American to do so. His skill caught the attention of NASCAR champion Kevin Harvick, who mentored Zilisch and emphasized the importance of staying committed to racing rather than pursuing traditional education.

Although Zilisch has demonstrated proficiency across various motorsports, including the Mazda MX-5 Cup and sports car racing, the transition to the Cup Series presents its own set of challenges. He completed three Cup Series starts in 2025, where the steep learning curve became evident. Zilisch acknowledged the need for patience, stating, “There are no breaks given whether you’re racing for the win, a top 10 or 32nd.” The level of competition in the Cup Series is fierce, and every driver is committed to their performance.

Zilisch is aware of the obstacles ahead and appreciates the competitive nature of the Cup Series, noting, “It’s what it’s talked up to be. The Cup Series is no joke.” He understands that the elite drivers in the series have all been champions or winners at various points in their careers, stating, “You don’t understand until you get there.” The learning experience in the Cup Series will be critical for Zilisch as he aims to solidify his place among the sport’s elite.

As Zilisch prepares for this significant step in his career, he reflects on advice from fellow drivers, including Logano and other competitors. Their insights into the realities of racing at the highest level serve as a guide for Zilisch as he navigates the new challenges he will face. Both Logano and Busch have emphasized the importance of time and experience in developing as a driver, highlighting that success in the Cup Series is not guaranteed, even for those with immense talent.

Zilisch’s journey in NASCAR is just beginning, and while challenges lie ahead, his potential is undeniable. The racing world will be watching closely as he steps into the Cup Series, eager to see how he adapts to the demands of the sport. With the support of Trackhouse Racing and his partners, Zilisch aims to make a significant impact in the years to come, further solidifying his status as one of NASCAR’s rising stars.