Connor Zilisch Set for full-Time NASCAR Cup Series Ride

Connor Zilisch is preparing for his first full season in the NASCAR Cup Series. After a dominant 2025 Xfinity campaign with a series-high 10 wins and numerous top-five finishes, the young racing star has been chosen by Trackhouse Racing to drive their No.99 car starting in 2026.

Daniel Suarez, the current driver of the No.99, is expected to move to Spire Motorsports next season. Zilisch will team up with ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen for the 2026 Cup Series schedule.

Zilisch already has three starts in a Trackhouse Cup car under his belt, achieving a best finish of eleventh at EchoPark Speedway. The Charlotte, North Carolina native understands the challenges of competing at the Cup level.

“There are no breaks given whether you’re racing for the win, a top 10 or 32nd,” Connor Zilisch explained. “It doesn’t matter; everyone is there to be in the next-best position and everyone gets paid to finish as good as possible.”

“There is no slack cut like there is in Xfinity. In Cup, it’s just ruthless. Those guys race for every spot.”