Connor Zilisch promoted to NASCAR Cup in multiyear deal with Trackhouse

Trackhouse Racing has officially signed a multiyear deal with Connor Zilisch to race in the NASCAR Cup Series, replacing Daniel Suarez after the Mexican-born driver spent five years with the organization. Suarez’s exit was previously announced on July 1st, and he has not yet secured a ride for next year.

Zilisch will race alongside teammates Ross Chastain (No. 1) and Shane van Gisbergen (No. 88), who will both be taking part in the 2025 NASCAR Cup playoffs.

Zilisch has already made a handful of starts with Trackhouse this year, driving the No. 87 car, and placing as high as eleventh at EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta).

“This day has been a dream of mine for a long time,” said Zilisch, who has been a Trackhouse developmental driver since 2024.

“Cup racing has been the goal since joining with Chevrolet and Trackhouse, and while I didn’t know it would come this soon, I feel like I’m ready,” Zilisch said. “I know the challenge that awaits entering the Cup Series as a full-time driver, but I feel that with the support of Trackhouse and Chevrolet, this is the right situation for me. I won’t be making any predictions for success next year. All I promise is to put in 100 percent effort, learn all that I can, plus have a little bit of fun along the way!”

Red Bull and WeatherTech will back the effort, and while Suarez is vacating the No. 99 car, the team did not confirm the car number for Zilisch in 2026.

Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch, Trackhouse Racing Team Chevrolet

The teenager is one of the top prospects in the lower divisions, and resume is already extensive, highlighted by class victories at the Rolex 24 at Daytona and Sebring 12 Hours, along with numerous NASCAR feats.

While he has been sensational in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, his year has also been marred by injuries. Zilisch suffered a back injury in a crash while leading at Talladega, and later broke his collarbone in a shocking fall while celebrating a win in Victory Lane at Watkins Glen.

Despite these setbacks, he has won seven races and currently sits second in the regular season standings. However, his most recent win came with relief driver Parker Kligerman finishing Friday night’s race at Daytona for him. While Kligerman captured the checkered flag, Zilisch will get credit for the race win.