Connor Zilisch, the rising star in American motorsports, hinted during the Rolex 24 at Daytona broadcast that he may pursue a Formula 1 career in the future. The 19-year-old’s rapid progress through NASCAR has sparked discussions around his potential path beyond the United States.
While his current focus remains on NASCAR, Zilisch acknowledged that if his early years in stock car racing go well, an opportunity to join Formula 1—possibly through Cadillac’s planned F1 program—would be an option he would consider.
Reflecting on a Breakout Season and Initial Formula 1 Ambitions
Zilisch’s 2025 campaign solidified his reputation as one of the most promising teenage talents in American racing, highlighted by 11 victories and consistently outperforming more experienced competitors. His calmness and versatility on track drew significant attention last season.
Making his GTP debut at the Rolex 24 with the Whelen Cadillac team, Zilisch openly discussed the possibility of shifting to Formula 1 in the coming years.
“If I have a very successful first few years in NASCAR, it’s not something I wouldn’t say no to,”
Zilisch said during the event broadcast.
Despite this, he emphasized his passion for NASCAR and satisfaction with his current trajectory. The prospect of Formula 1 remains a distant but intriguing option rather than an immediate goal.
Versatility and Global Recognition Following Endurance and Road Course Success
Zilisch’s success is not confined to oval racing; his strength on road and street circuits throughout the 2025 season has been remarkable. His precise braking and speed in corner entry set him apart and are skills highly valued in Formula 1’s open-wheel racing arena.
His debut at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, where he won his class in LMP2 in 2024, demonstrated his adaptability against an international field of experienced endurance drivers. This ability to perform across diverse disciplines aligns with the demands of modern motorsports, particularly in F1 where technical feedback and flexibility are essential.
The potential link between Zilisch and Formula 1 has heightened given Cadillac’s collaboration with Andretti on a future American F1 team, fueling talks about creating viable pathways for U.S. drivers to enter the sport at the highest level.
Staying Grounded While Eyes Look Toward an International Stage
Although Zilisch’s name is beginning to surface in conversations about international racing opportunities, he remains focused on his first full season in the NASCAR Cup Series. His immediate goal is to extend the momentum he built in 2025 and continue proving himself on America’s top stock car stage.
The recognition he has gained so far could open doors beyond NASCAR if he maintains his current trajectory. His openness to a future in Formula 1 adds a compelling dimension to his already impressive career, reflecting a broader ambition fueled by passion and confidence.
"If I have a very successful first few years in NASCAR, it's not something I wouldn't say no to."
Via the Rolex 24 broadcast, Connor Zilisch said one day, if the opportunity is presented, he'd consider racing for Cadillac in F1. pic.twitter.com/0dm01MZb9N
— Taylor Kitchen (@_TaylorKitchen_) January 25, 2026
