Zilisch Overcomes Adversity for Focused Health 250 Victory at COTA

A resilient Connor Zilisch, the 18-year-old sensation known for his road course prowess, once again demonstrated his mettle by capturing Saturday’s Focused Health 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the Circuit of the Americas. The victory marked his second in the series, adding to his debut win at Watkins Glen last summer.

Zilisch’s path to victory was far from straightforward. Early in the race, a commitment line violation relegated him to the rear of the field. Following a subsequent pit stop during a caution period, he restarted in 32nd position after the first stage break. Undeterred, Zilisch expertly navigated his No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet through the pack, ultimately seizing the lead from teammate Carson Kvapil on Lap 56 of the 65-lap contest around the challenging 2.4-mile, 17-turn circuit.

The race was not without its physical challenges. In a fierce battle for position during the final stage, Zilisch made significant contact with Corey Heim’s Toyota, forcing Heim off course. The wheel-to-wheel incident resulted in damage to the right front fender of Zilisch’s car, causing a concerning tire rub under hard braking.

Even after securing the lead, Zilisch faced intense pressure from Kvapil. The two teammates engaged in a tight battle until Kvapil’s right front tire suffered a late-race deflation on Lap 60, providing Zilisch with the breathing room needed to nurse his damaged car to the checkered flag.

William Byron, driving the No. 17 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet that claimed victory at COTA last year, closed a four-second gap to finish just 1.639 seconds behind Zilisch but was unable to mount a final challenge.

Reflecting on the hard-fought win, Zilisch acknowledged the difficulties faced. “That was way harder than I wanted it to be,” he admitted. “I did not drive a clean race at all… I made way too many mistakes… I was glad we were able to fight back.”

Byron, who will also compete in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race, noted the handling characteristics of his car. “My car was just kind of floppy in the short run, and I had to try to take care of it,” he explained. “I just tried to stay with it there in the long run… It was good to get back into the rhythm of things.”

Zilisch’s successful weekend continues as he prepares for his NASCAR Cup Series debut in Sunday’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, where he will start from the 14th position.

Sam Mayer secured third place in the Xfinity race, while Austin Hill, the previous week’s winner in Atlanta, finished fourth after briefly leading the race following a Lap 46 restart. Hill’s time at the front was short-lived, as he relinquished the lead to Kvapil on Lap 52, with Zilisch following closely behind before ultimately taking the top spot.