Connor Zilisch has quickly become one of the most exciting talents in NASCAR’s Xfinity Series this year. As the JR Motorsports driver continues to win frequently, his dominance in the sport’s second tier has drawn considerable attention. This season’s standout performances led to Trackhouse Racing confirming Zilisch’s promotion to the Cup Series in 2026, heightening expectations around his future. The buzz intensified as many compared him to three-time Cup champion Joey Logano, who recently gave his perspective on the youngster’s development.
At this year’s Daytona race, Logano experienced the ups and downs of NASCAR, almost securing a win before ending up 27th in the final laps. Despite the disappointment, Logano approached the playoffs starting at Darlington with determination. During the pre-race media session, he addressed the growing comparisons to Zilisch and offered his evaluation of the emerging star’s potential.
Logano openly praised Zilisch’s skill and maturity, stating,
“I think he’s [Zilisch] better than I was at that age, and he seems to be more mature than I was at that age,”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR Cup Series driver. However, the seasoned driver did not hold back in delivering advice grounded in his own challenging experiences, urging Zilisch to keep humility at the core of his progress.
The veteran continued,
“I lived it. I’ve been there. As good as I think that he is and will be, I also think that you’ve got to stay humble throughout it all and just remember what’s important,”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR Cup Series driver. These words emphasize the need for balance amid rapid success, a lesson Logano learned firsthand.
Zilisch’s ascent from racing in trucks to becoming a top contender in the Xfinity Series signals a promising future in NASCAR’s premier division. Fans and experts alike are eager to see how he adapts when he advances to the Cup Series, reinforcing the significance of Logano’s guidance.
How Joey Logano’s Career Informs His Advice on Young Talent
Joey Logano’s own journey through NASCAR began with strong performances in the ARCA Series and other development programs. Upon entering the Cup Series, he quickly met high expectations. In 2009, Logano made history by winning his first Cup race at the age of 19 years, one month, and four days, securing his status as the youngest winner ever in NASCAR’s top division—a record that remains unbroken.
Despite this early success, Logano faced several challenging seasons that saw his performance dip, ultimately leading to the loss of his ride with Joe Gibbs Racing. These tough periods provided lessons that the driver draws upon when mentoring emerging talents like Zilisch.
Logano’s career turned a corner in 2013 when Roger Penske’s Team Penske brought him onboard. Since then, he has become one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers, accumulating 35 victories and three championship titles, demonstrating remarkable resilience and growth.
His transformation underlines why his advice carries weight; Logano’s experiences illustrate both the glamour and the pitfalls of early stardom in NASCAR. For Zilisch, following this blueprint means not only focusing on skill but also maintaining a grounded mindset as he climbs the ranks.
The Broader Impact of Joey Logano’s Counsel on NASCAR’s Future Stars
As NASCAR continues to cultivate young stars like Connor Zilisch, guidance from veterans such as Joey Logano plays a crucial role in shaping the sport’s next generation. Logano’s frank assessment and cautionary advice highlight the challenges that come with sudden success. His encouragement to remain humble serves as a reminder of the importance of perspective and focus beyond just winning races.
With Zilisch set to join the Cup Series in 2026, his journey will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders. Logano’s input not only prepares Zilisch for the competition ahead but also contributes to a culture of mentorship that could ensure sustained excellence within NASCAR.
This exchange between established and rising drivers reinforces NASCAR’s tradition of learning through experience, helping maintain a healthy balance between ambition and humility among its competitors.
