During the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Watkins Glen on August 9, teammates Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch were involved in a notable on-track incident. The contact occurred on lap 64, when van Gisbergen‘s move pushed Zilisch wide in turn 6, causing a chain reaction that sent van Gisbergen’s No. 9 Chevrolet hard into the wall. Despite the dramatic collision, neither driver is holding any grudges.
Details of the Incident and Race Outcomes
As Zilisch re-entered the track after being forced wide, he made contact with van Gisbergen, which caused a significant impact that briefly lifted van Gisbergen’s car off the ground. Zilisch went on to claim victory in the Xfinity race, although he suffered a broken collarbone after falling in victory lane. Van Gisbergen, meanwhile, secured a win in Sunday’s Cup Series event, demonstrating resilience after the incident.
Trackhouse Racing Owner Comments on the Situation
Justin Marks, owner of Trackhouse Racing, addressed the incident during an appearance on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. He emphasized that both drivers had discussed the event and reviewed the situation thoroughly.
“Those two talked. (Shane) went and looked at it, Connor went and looked at it,” Marks said. “Everything was handled right. I think it was kind of a racing incident. It’s one of those deals where I don’t think there’s a lot of blame or a lot of fault. It’s just an unfortunate situation. Everything is fine between them, everything is fine with the team.”
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing owner
Marks reiterated the team’s perspective that no lingering issues remain between the drivers or within the organization.
“Everything is fine between the two of them, everything is fine within the team.”
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing owner
Future Implications for the Drivers at Trackhouse Racing
Van Gisbergen and Zilisch have competed together in select Xfinity and Cup Series races this season, and discussions suggest they may soon become full-time teammates in Trackhouse Racing’s Cup Series lineup for 2026. The incident, while dramatic, appears to have no lasting effect on their professional relationship or team dynamics.
Zilisch’s Injury and Upcoming Race Outlook
Although Zilisch won the Watkins Glen Xfinity race, his victory celebration was cut short due to a fall in victory lane that resulted in a broken collarbone. His participation in the August 22 Xfinity Series race at Daytona remains uncertain as medical evaluations continue. The team and fans will be closely watching his recovery and potential return.
Context and Coverage
Samuel, a NASCAR journalist with Yardbarker and a member of the National Motorsports Press Association, has been covering racing since early 2024. He reports from the same region as NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin and also follows Arkansas Razorback basketball. His insights help provide a comprehensive understanding of developments involving Trackhouse Racing and its drivers.
