Connor Zilisch, already confirmed as a full-time driver for Trackhouse Racing in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series, will also take on a part-time role with JR Motorsports in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This dual engagement initially led to speculation that Carson Kvapil might lose his full-time ride. However, Kvapil will remain active, competing part-time in JR Motorsports’ No. 9 Chevrolet entry and participating in multiple races with DGM Racing alongside Jesse Iwuji Motorsports.
Recent Circuit of the Americas Race Highlights Challenges for Zilisch and Kvapil
Zilisch, who secured 10 wins for JR Motorsports in 2025, returned to the team’s No. 1 Chevrolet at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) race. He started the event on pole but finished 21st after a race filled with incidents, including contact with Corey Day of Hendrick Motorsports. Meanwhile, Kvapil debuted his partnership with DGM Racing and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports in the No. 91 Chevrolet at COTA, crossing the finish line in 19th. This result positioned him fifth in the series standings before the upcoming Phoenix Raceway event.
Focus Shifts to Phoenix for Zilisch Amid Tough Weekend
During the recent NASCAR Cup Series race, Zilisch faced adversity when contact forced him to fall from the top five to the rear of the field twice. Despite these setbacks, he fought back to finish 14th, improving his position in the points standings from last place. Although the 19-year-old entered the weekend as a favorite to claim victory in either of the two races, his performance fell short of expectations. Moving forward, Zilisch will concentrate solely on the Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway this weekend.
Kvapil Returns to Familiar No. 1 Chevrolet for Upcoming Race
With Zilisch focusing on the Cup event, Carson Kvapil is scheduled to return behind the wheel of the No. 1 Chevrolet for the GOVX 200, a 200-lap race at the four-turn, 1.022-mile oval in Avondale, Arizona. This race will take place on Saturday, March 7. Following the Phoenix event, Zilisch is slated to rejoin JR Motorsports in the No. 1 car at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 11, as well as compete later in the season at Watkins Glen International, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, and Chicagoland Speedway.
Broadcast Details and Sporting Outlook
The GOVX 200 at Phoenix Raceway will be broadcast live on the CW Network starting at 7:30 p.m. ET on race day. As Zilisch and Kvapil navigate their respective roles this season, observers will be watching closely to see how the shifts affect their standings and team dynamics. With multiple race entries and strategic decisions underway, the 2026 NASCAR season appears set for an intense and competitive phase.
