Connor Zilisch is only 19, but he’s already stacking achievements that many drivers twice his age are still chasing. Fresh off winning the 2024 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in the LMP2 class, he just took another big step by testing Action Express Racing’s Cadillac V-Series.R GTP car at Daytona.
Over the course of 33 laps during an IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship test, he showed the same calm, sharp focus that’s becoming his signature. This was his first taste of GTP machinery, and it put him in a strong spot for a possible fourth-driver role in the 2026 Rolex 24.
For someone who’s jumped between NASCAR, prototypes, and GT cars, this test was another sign of how fast Connor Zilisch’s career is moving.
Connor Zilisch Adjusts to the GTP Cadillac
After stepping out of the No. 02 Cadillac, Connor Zilisch shared what the experience was like. “It was awesome,” he said. “It’s very different, but at the same time similar to things I’ve driven in the past. It’s kind of a mixture between the P2 car and the GT3 I drove this year.” He also explained that the GTP car was “a little heavier than the P2” but had more power and more systems to learn. The session took place on older Michelin tires and in mixed traffic, giving him time to get comfortable. “It was a lot of fun getting to feel it out and run a lot of laps,” he said. “Daytona is a relatively simple track… It was a pretty chill first session.”
Chris Mitchum, director of operations for Action Express Racing, confirmed the team was pleased with the run.
“He did great,” Mitchum told Sportscar365. He noted that Zilisch didn’t try anything risky but kept improving lap after lap. “There were no earth-shattering moments or issues at all,” he said, calling it “a good, comfortable run to get a good number of laps.”
Recent Setback and Long-Term Goals
The Daytona test came just weeks after Connor Zilisch narrowly missed winning the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series title. That result cost him the FIA license points needed for a rookie test in Bahrain with Cadillac’s Hypercar program. The canceled opportunity highlighted the strictness of the licensing system for prototype racing at the world level. Even so, Zilisch’s skill across multiple cars continues to speak for itself.
Connor Zilisch’s Daytona journey started in 2022 in the MX-5 Cup. “The first time I came to Daytona racing this weekend was in the MX-5 Cup,” he said. “I’ve loved it ever since. Being able to race in the 24 Hours is something I’ve dreamed of as a kid.” That early experience turned Daytona into a personal landmark for him.
Eyes on the Rolex 24 and Beyond
If selected, the 2026 Rolex 24 would be Connor Zilisch’s third start in the event and his third different class. “I don’t know if I’m doing it, but if I do end up getting to do it and I do well enough today, then that would be cool,” he said. Connor Zilisch also called testing the GTP car “such a dream” and noted how meaningful it was to drive in IMSA’s top class.
As IMSA works toward the 2026 season and potential aero changes for GTP entries, Connor Zilisch’s performance is a clear sign that he’s positioned for more big moments.
His upcoming step to the NASCAR Cup Series with Trackhouse Racing in 2026 adds another layer to his schedule, but the results so far suggest he’s equipped to handle both worlds.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post “It Was Awesome”: Connor Zilisch’s First GTP Test Hints at Rolex 24 Future appeared first on Heavy Sports.