Connor Zilisch Bio
Early Life and Background
Connor Jackson Zilisch was born on July 22, 2006, in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States. He began his racing journey at a young age, starting in go-karts at just five years old. Over the next decade, Zilisch honed his skills in karting, achieving significant success, including winning the Mini Rok World Championship in 2017 in Italy. His early exposure to competitive racing laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in motorsports.
Zilisch’s karting career culminated in 2020 when he became the first American to win the CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy, a prestigious international event. This victory was a significant milestone, showcasing his talent on a global stage and setting the stage for his transition to car racing.
Path to NASCAR Cup Series
In 2021, Zilisch made the leap from karts to cars, beginning his racing career in the Spec Miata class with the Sports Car Club of America. His impressive performances quickly garnered attention, leading to a third-place finish at the SCCA Run-offs and earning him the title of Jim Fitzgerald Rookie of the Year. Later that year, he won the Mazda MX-5 Cup Scholarship, which funded his participation in the series in 2022.
Zilisch’s early achievements in car racing included a successful stint in the Mazda MX-5 Cup, where he recorded four wins and was named Rookie of the Year in 2022. His rapid ascent through the ranks continued as he competed in various series, including the ARCA Menards Series and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, ultimately leading to his debut in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Connor Zilisch Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Zilisch’s early career saw him competing in multiple racing series, including the Mazda MX-5 Cup and the ARCA Menards Series. He made a significant impact in the ARCA Menards Series, where he achieved five wins and eight top-ten finishes. His first notable victory came at Dover in 2024, where he dominated the race, leading the final laps to secure his first career win.
In addition to his success in ARCA, Zilisch made his Pro Late Model debut in 2022, winning his first race and showcasing his versatility as a driver. His performances in various series established him as a promising talent in the racing community.
NASCAR Xfinity Series Breakthrough (2024-2025)
Zilisch made his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut in September 2024 at Watkins Glen International, where he won the race, becoming the first driver in over three years to win in their Xfinity Series debut. In 2025, he competed full-time for JR Motorsports, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet Camaro. Zilisch had a remarkable season, scoring ten wins and achieving a record-breaking eighteen consecutive top-five finishes.
His impressive performance earned him the title of NASCAR Xfinity Series Rookie of the Year, and he reached the championship race at Phoenix Raceway, finishing second overall. Zilisch’s ability to consistently perform at a high level solidified his reputation as a rising star in NASCAR.
Trackhouse Racing Era (2025-Present)
In January 2025, Zilisch signed a multi-year contract with Trackhouse Racing to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series. He made his Cup Series debut at Circuit of the Americas, where he faced challenges but continued to develop as a driver. Throughout the 2025 season, Zilisch showcased his potential, finishing with a best result of eleventh place at Atlanta.
As he transitions into the Cup Series, Zilisch aims to build on his successes in the Xfinity Series and establish himself as a competitive driver at the highest level of NASCAR.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Zilisch is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic approach to racing. His experience in various racing disciplines has equipped him with a diverse skill set, allowing him to adapt to different track conditions and competition levels. His ability to maintain composure under pressure has been a key factor in his success.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Zilisch’s career is marked by several significant achievements, including his victories in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and prestigious endurance races like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His record-breaking performances in the Xfinity Series have set new standards for rookie drivers, highlighting his exceptional talent.
Connor Zilisch Career Wins
Connor Zilisch has made a name for himself in various racing series, accumulating a total of 11 wins in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and 5 wins in the ARCA Menards Series. His early career in karting also featured notable victories, including the CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
As of 2025, Zilisch has yet to secure a win in the NASCAR Cup Series but continues to build his experience and skills. His best finish in the series so far is 23rd, with aspirations to improve as he gains more seat time.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Zilisch has achieved 11 wins, including his first victory at Watkins Glen in 2024. He also had a successful run in the ARCA Menards Series, where he secured 5 wins and established himself as a formidable competitor.
Connor Zilisch Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Connor Zilisch comes from a family with a rich athletic background. His mother, Janice Kerr, was a gymnast on the Canadian women’s national artistic gymnastics team and has a history of competitive success. While there is limited public information about Zilisch’s family, his mother’s achievements in sports may have influenced his competitive spirit.
Personal Life
Zilisch is actively involved in mentoring younger drivers in karting, sharing his knowledge and experience to help develop the next generation of racers. He also runs a YouTube channel with fellow drivers, showcasing their racing experiences and insights.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Connor Zilisch as he transitions into the NASCAR Cup Series full-time. Competing with Trackhouse Racing, Zilisch has faced challenges but continues to demonstrate his potential as a driver. His best finish of the season is 23rd, and he is focused on improving his performance as he gains more experience in the series. With a strong foundation built from his successful Xfinity Series campaign, Zilisch aims to leverage his skills and make a significant impact in the Cup Series moving forward.
