NASCAR rookie Connor Zilisch will shoulder heavy – Sports News
NASCAR Cup Series rookie Connor Zilisch will carry a heavy weight on his shoulders in 2026, with the 19-year-old driving the long-lasting No. 88 beforehand held by his former JR Motorsports boss, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Zilisch’s 2025 Xfinity season resulted in Championship heartbreak after Jesse Love pipped him to the title in Phoenix, Arizona, regardless of racking up 10 wins — however the teenager is now wanting ahead to taking the following step in his profession.
Long earlier than the 2025 season ended, it was confirmed that Zilisch can be changing Daniel Suarez for a full-time seat at Trackhouse Racing. He has determined to honor JRM proprietor Dale Jr. by persevering with to drive the No. 88, the quantity the NASCAR legend sported from 2008 to 2017.
It can be the quantity that his 2026 teammate Shane van Gisbergen used during his rookie Cup Series marketing campaign final season, whereas he dominated street programs with 5 wins. “It’s cool for me to carry on the legacy of the 88 number,” Zilisch stated.
“That number has quickly become important to me, and the history of that number in the sport with Shane, Dale Jr., Dale Jarrett, and everyone who has run the 88. I certainly have big shoes to fill but hopefully I’ll be able to carry that on.
“I’m actually excited to be working with Randall in 2026. We have already began engaged on how we’ll method subsequent season. I really feel like we’re beginning to construct that relationship which may be very important. I’m wanting ahead to studying a lot from Randall and his expertise on this sport.”
Dale Jr. additionally wrote Zilisch a heartfelt letter forward of his Cup Series transfer. “Dear Connor,” Dale Jr. started. “The #88 has at all times carried a little additional that means for me. It’s not simply a quantity: It’s a legacy, outlined by guys like Darrell Waltrip, Dale Jarrett, and most lately, SVG.
“I had a lot of great years myself driving that number. You ignited a new chapter with the 88, one written in your own style. From breaking records to delivering JRM’s 100th win as an organization, I always knew you had the talent and the heart.
“And now, I could not be more proud to say you will carry the #88 ahead into the Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing. The story of the #88 is much from completed. And now, it is your flip to jot down the following chapter, and we’re all right here for it. Your buddy, Dale Earnhardt Jr.”
Veteran Cup Series crew chief Randall Burnett will information Zilisch in his first full-time Cup season. He is an skilled NASCAR crew chief, boasting six Cup Series victories and having overseen 253 Cup races. Burnett additionally secured the 2019 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship whereas working with Tyler Reddick.
“Connor is a talented young driver and has been successful in other racing series,” stated Burnett.
“To be the guy who will guide him in his first full Cup season and doing it at Trackhouse is a privilege. He’s very energetic and dedicated to being a successful driver.”
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