By Fox Sports | Created at 2026-08-17 16:36:21 | Updated at 2026-08-17 17:28:50
1 hour ago
Connor Zilisch won 10 O’Reilly Series races last year but has struggled this year as a rookie in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Currently, he sits 34th in the Cup standings.
However, after the 2027 season, the 20-year-old will leave Trackhouse Racing and will join Hendrick Motorsports.
Zilisch will replace Alex Bowman, who already has announced his retirement after next season. Hendrick has signed Zilisch to a multi-year deal and Ally will remain as sponsor of the No. 48 car.
"Connor is a truly gifted young racer," said HMS owner Rick Hendrick in a news release. "His talent behind the wheel is exceptional, but I’m even more impressed by the person he is.
Connor Zilisch has struggled in his rookie Cup season, but brighter days could be in the future with his move to Hendrick.
"When someone with that kind of ability and character becomes available, you do everything you can to bring them into your organization. We have tremendous confidence in Connor, and we believe he’s the right driver to build on the legacy of the No. 48 Ally team for many years to come."
Zilisch’s contract at Trackhouse is up after the 2027 season. He signed with the team in January 2024 and spent 2025 driving for JR Motorsports in the O’Reilly Series.
"This is one of those moments you dream about as a kid," Zilisch said in a news release. "Hendrick Motorsports has always represented the standard in our sport, and being entrusted to help continue that legacy means everything to me.
"The chance to drive a Chevrolet for Mr. Hendrick, carry the colors of an incredible partner like Ally and compete alongside some of the best drivers and people in racing is what you work so hard for.
"I’m grateful for the confidence they’ve shown in me, and it’s my job to prove they made the right decision."
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