Justin Marks, owner of Trackhouse Racing, has highlighted the exceptional progress of NASCAR prospect Connor Zilisch, drawing a vivid comparison between Zilisch’s rapid development and the ascent of four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. This Max Verstappen NASCAR comparison underscores Zilisch’s maturity and talent as he prepares for a full-time move to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026.
Zilisch has shown remarkable performance in NASCAR’s Xfinity Series this season, clinching seven victories and rapidly becoming one of the sport’s most promising young drivers. His next step is joining Trackhouse Racing’s Cup Series team, a significant milestone following a standout year.
Taking over the seat vacated by Daniel Suarez, Zilisch has signed a multi-year deal with Trackhouse Racing, competing in a Chevrolet car. Details regarding his car number and sponsorship remain confidential ahead of his official debut.
Justin Marks on Zilisch’s Early Success and Potential
Steven Taranto shared Marks’ insights on social media platform X, where Marks stressed Zilisch’s unusual composure and ability at a young age, similar to the way Verstappen established himself early in Formula 1 racing.
“All of those things together he’s demonstrated in a way that I’ve not ever seen a teenager be able to do before. When you recognize that you’ve got that in a package, you have to run with it. We’ve seen it. I mean, Max Verstappen, and there’s been other drivers that have gotten sort of thrown into the top level at a young age, and all of those guys kind of demonstrate the same thing.”
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing Owner
Marks also expressed strong confidence in Zilisch’s future, emphasizing the team’s belief in his ability to succeed as a rookie in the Cup Series.
“We wouldn’t be doing this if we didn’t think that he’d be successful, if we didn’t think that he’d be able to win as a rookie. We’re just thrilled to be able to have him.”
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing Owner
Talent and Youth Link Zilisch and Verstappen on the Racing Stage
The parallels between Connor Zilisch and Max Verstappen extend beyond talent alone. Both drivers have experienced intense pressure early in their careers while competing at the highest level in their respective motorsport series. Verstappen began his Formula 1 career in 2015 at age 17 and has since won four consecutive World Drivers’ Championship titles with Red Bull Racing.
Zilisch aims to emulate similar success in NASCAR’s Cup Series, where the 19-year-old driver hopes to make an immediate impact and continue building on his impressive record from the Xfinity Series.
Connor Zilisch Opens Up on His Upcoming Promotion
Following the announcement of his elevation to the NASCAR Cup Series full-time starting next season, Connor Zilisch showed deep emotion during a press conference held on August 23. The young driver reflected on the journey and sacrifices made to reach this milestone.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude toward those who supported him throughout his racing career, particularly highlighting the role his family played in his development.
“Being on the last 15 years of my life, and what’s led to this moment and got me this point. I never thought I would make it anywhere in racing. My parents have been behind me since day one, through every moment, the good, the bad. There were many times I question why I left school, left my friends to make this commitment to go to the Cup Series and try and chase a dream of racing in motorsports.”
—Connor Zilisch, NASCAR Driver
After an exceptional season in the Xfinity Series, Zilisch now looks ahead to lighting up the Cup Series stage when he starts competing full-time in 2026, aiming to continue his rise within NASCAR alongside Trackhouse Racing.
