As the 2026 NASCAR season approaches its first road course event at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) on March 1, Trackhouse Racing’s Connor Zilisch is gearing up to challenge teammate Shane van Gisbergen. The 19-year-old driver is confident about his prospects in the upcoming race, aiming to leverage his previous strong performances on road courses.
Van Gisbergen, based in New Zealand, established dominance in 2025 by winning five out of six road course races, though he finished sixth at COTA. Meanwhile, Zilisch, competing for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series, claimed victory in the COTA race last season. This contrast sets the stage for a compelling duel between teammates in 2026.
Connor Zilisch Reflects on Previous Encounters with Van Gisbergen
Looking back on the last season, Zilisch recalled outperforming van Gisbergen at Sonoma, where he secured first place while the former Supercars Championship driver came in second. He expressed confidence in his ability to race head-to-head against van Gisbergen despite differences in car dynamics.
“I got the chance to race against him a few times toe-to-toe in the O’Reilly Series, and I think those cars are a little bit different for him, so it’s not a complete comparison, but I feel like I’ve been able to run with him in those.”
?Connor Zilisch, Trackhouse Racing Driver
“We were teammates in the Corvette in the [Daytona] 24 Hours, and I felt like I was as fast as him in that. So, personally, I feel like I can do it—but putting an entire race together and being as consistent and not making mistakes like him is where it’s all going to come together,” he added.
?Connor Zilisch, Trackhouse Racing Driver
Despite Zilisch’s optimism, the 2026 season has started with some challenges. He finished 33rd at the Daytona 500 and 30th at the Autotrader 400, while van Gisbergen placed 30th and sixth in those events respectively. Both drivers are expected to adjust their strategies going into the COTA race to improve their standing.
Recognition for Connor Zilisch’s Outstanding 2025 Performance
Beyond the track battles, Zilisch’s achievements were formally recognized when he received the 2025 NMPA Richard Petty Driver of the Year award. This accolade was bestowed in acknowledgment of his remarkable consistency, which included ten wins and an impressive streak of 18 consecutive top-five finishes during the previous season.
Zilisch triumphed over notable competitors, including NTT IndyCar champion Alex Palou, Cup Series veteran Denny Hamlin, and 2025 Truck Series champion Corey Heim. Other contenders such as 2025 F1 champion Lando Norris, NHRA Funny Car champion Austin Prock, and NHRA Top Fuel driver Brittany Force were also considered for the honor.
“2025 @JRMotorsports driver @ConnorZilisch was voted as the 2025 Richard Petty Driver of the Year by the NMPA Membership. Zilisch is the second consecutive year that a Xfinity (now O’Reilly Auto Parts) Series driver has received the award.”
?NMPA Official Statement
This award also marked the second time a JR Motorsports driver earned the distinction, following teammate Justin Allgaier’s win in 2024 after his first Xfinity Series championship. Such recognition underscores Zilisch’s rising status within NASCAR’s competitive ranks.
Implications for the 2026 Season and Upcoming Showdown
The upcoming COTA race represents a critical test for both Zilisch and van Gisbergen as they strive to assert dominance on the road course circuit. Zilisch’s prior victory at COTA and his recent remarks signal that he is determined to capitalize on his experience and consistency. Van Gisbergen’s track record of success makes the encounter a high-stakes battle that could influence team dynamics within Trackhouse Racing.
This duel will not only impact the drivers’ standings but also shape the strategies and momentum as the 2026 season unfolds. Observers and fans alike will be watching closely to see if Zilisch can maintain his edge over a formidable teammate and continue building his profile in NASCAR’s premier road course events.
