The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series returned to the Circuit of the Americas for the Focused Health 250 on Saturday afternoon, with Shane van Gisbergen starting second behind pole-sitter Connor Zilisch. Van Gisbergen quickly seized the lead on the opening lap, leading the initial five laps before Zilisch reclaimed the front spot.
Stage Winners Emerge Amid Intense Competition
Zilisch maintained control for 12 laps before heading to pit road near the end of the first stage, allowing Austin Hill to take over and ultimately win that segment. Sam Mayer secured victory in the second stage. Throughout the race, multiple lead changes kept the outcome uncertain, with 16 swaps at the front and four separate caution periods covering 12 laps.
Late-Race Battle and Final Results
In the closing laps, Zilisch struggled with brake troubles and crashed with just three laps remaining, finishing 21st. Van Gisbergen, meanwhile, faced pressure from Austin Hill but managed to hold on, leading 31 laps—the most of any driver—and crossing the finish line 0.78 seconds ahead of Hill to claim his fifth series win and first victory at COTA. Sammy Smith, Jesse Love, and Corey Day completed the top five, while Brent Crews, William Sawalich, Justin Allgaier, Ross Chastain, and Brennan Poole rounded out the top ten.
Looking Ahead to Phoenix Raceway
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series will shift its focus to Phoenix Raceway for the next race scheduled on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., broadcast on The CW.
