Connor Zilisch has secured a full-time seat with JR Motorsports for the 2025 Xfinity Series season.
Rising star Connor Zilisch will be joining JR Motorsports on a full-time basis for the 2025 Xfinity Series season, the team officially confirmed on Wednesday.
The announcement marks a significant milestone in the 18-year old’s burgeoning racing career, as he transitions from a development driver role at Trackhouse Racing to a competitive position in one of NASCAR’s premier series.
Despite the young age, Zilisch is already making headlines in the racing community. His journey began in karting, where he quickly showcased his exceptional driving skills.
The Mooresville, North Carolina native later transitioned to stock car racing and made a name for himself in the ARCA Menards Series, where he achieved impressive results, including multiple wins. His versatility was further underlined by his participation in the LMP2 class at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, where he became the second-youngest driver to win this prestigious endurance race.
Zilisch has been making part-time appearances in NASCAR races this year. He holds four checkered flags in six ARCA Menards Series East starts so far this season. However his highlight came after he was handed a drive in the No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado for Spire Motorsports to make his Truck Series debut at COTA back in March where he secured a very strong P4.
“This is an amazing moment for me and all the people who have helped me get to this place in my career,” he said following the announcement
“With so much support from Chevrolet and a chance to race in trucks and ARCA with Silver Hare Racing, I was able to sign with Trackhouse Racing and they went to work to secure an incredible opportunity for me.
“I am so grateful and can’t wait to show their trust in me is warranted. It is mind-blowing to think that I will drive for JR Motorsports and Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who is one of my heroes. I’m ready to put in the work.”
Zilisch will be driving the iconic No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports, a team renowned for its success in the Xfinity Series and its commitment to developing young drivers.
“Connor is such an impressive driver at this young age,” JR Motorsports co-owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. said in a statement.
“We’re excited for him to get behind the wheel full time next season. He is on a path to sure success with support from Chevrolet, Silver Hare Racing, Trackhouse, and now JR Motorsports.”
Trackhouse founder and owner Justin Marks added: “We couldn’t be more excited to begin this relationship with JR Motorsports and know that Connor is in good hands as we work together to continue Connor’s development.
“Connor has a bright future in this sport and we plan to be together for a long time. JR Motorsports is the perfect partner for Trackhouse and Connor.”
Zilisch becomes a member of a team that also includes Brandon Jones (No. 9), Sammy Smith (No. 8), Justin Allgaier (No. 7), and Sam Mayer (No. 1).
He will be replacing Earnhardt who has been driving the No. 88 car on a part-time basis for the past few seasons.
