Connor Zilisch’s season has been tough, busy, and packed with lessons. He is nineteen and already racing at a level most drivers spend years chasing. His latest setback came when he lost his chance to take part in the FIA World Endurance Championship rookie test in Bahrain.
That opportunity depended on earning enough FIA license points. He fell short when he missed the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series title at Phoenix. The loss hurt twice. He missed the trophy and lost the points he needed for the Hypercar test.
He spoke honestly about the disappointment. “I wish I could have been in Bahrain, but obviously it didn’t work out how we wanted it to, he said.”
Support poured in from fans and people in the industry. Instead of waiting for another chance, Zilisch regrouped and got back in a race car at Daytona.
Missed Opportunity in Bahrain
FIA license rules require a certain number of points for Hypercar testing. Zilisch did not have enough. He explained that the backing he received softened the blow.
“It made me feel a little bit better about what happened in Phoenix. Obviously, it didn’t go the way we wanted it to, and I didn’t win the championship, which ended up not giving me enough FIA license points to go do the test in Bahrain.”
He appreciated the encouragement. “It was nice to see a bunch of people backing me up and giving me some motivation. It all worked out. Although it was a little upsetting that I didn’t get to go over there and drive with JOTA, it’s all part of it.” The situation fueled a larger conversation about how the system affects younger drivers. He accepted the result and moved forward.
Connor Zilisch’s Resume Already Packed With Results
Zilisch has already done things most drivers only talk about. He became the youngest IMSA LMP2 winner at the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January 2025.
He earned poles and victories across ARCA, the Truck Series, and the Xfinity Series. Trackhouse Racing signed him to a development agreement that points toward a NASCAR Cup Series seat in 2026. He has proven he can switch between cars and formats without hesitation. These results give him leverage even when a setback hits.
Cadillac Test at Daytona
After the Bahrain setback, Zilisch headed to Daytona International Speedway for his first test in the GTP class. He drove the No. 31 Whelen Engineering Cadillac V-Series.R for Action Express Racing over two days of running. The hybrid system and speed represented a new challenge. He embraced it.
“It’s a dream to get behind the wheel of something like this,” he said. “The team made me feel right at home, and I’m excited about what could come next.”
Cadillac aims to improve its program before the 2026 Rolex 24. Zilisch’s involvement puts him in the conversation for a future seat. His Daytona LMP2 win earlier in the year strengthens that possibility. Drivers like Pipo Derani and Jack Aitken are currently in the lineup.
Zilisch knows the highs and lows that come with racing. “It’s all part of it.” His response to setbacks makes him stand out. He responds by working harder and finding the next step. His future remains full of opportunity.
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