Connor Zilisch is set to compete in all three races at Watkins Glen International this weekend, sparking questions about his chances to win each event. Since returning from injury at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Zilisch has not finished outside the top five in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/motorsports/nascar/xfinity-series/”>NASCAR Xfinity Series and has secured four wins, establishing himself as a formidable competitor. His impressive road course record adds fuel to speculation that a perfect sweep might be within reach this weekend.
Zilisch will begin his weekend in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 45 truck for Niece Motorsports. The team recently parted ways with Kaden Honeycutt despite his strong standing in the series, paving the way for Zilisch to race top-tier equipment. With Niece’s reputation for speed and competitiveness, Zilisch is well-positioned to challenge series leader Corey Heim in the truck race and could very well take the victory there.
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Zilisch appears even more favored. He has already won two road course races this season at Circuit of the Americas and Sonoma, and Watkins Glen marks the site of his first career Xfinity win last year. This experience should give him an edge heading into the weekend’s second race.
The NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday presents the greatest challenge for Zilisch, as he will face established stars such as Shane Van Gisbergen, Chase Elliott, and other top road course specialists. While Zilisch may not be the outright favorite at the outset, Watkins Glen is one track where he could compete at the highest level. Should any frontrunners encounter difficulties early, Zilisch could quickly move into contention.
Overall, expectations point toward Zilisch capturing two out of the three victories this weekend, likely in the Truck and Xfinity Series races. His upcoming promotion to a Cup ride seems imminent, and his skill set suggests he will soon be a serious contender at that level.
Kaden Honeycutt’s Season Finale at HFR after Watkins Glen
Kaden Honeycutt, recently released by Niece Motorsports amid shifts in team alliances and manufacturer commitments, will finish the season with HFR after Watkins Glen. Despite being sixth in the Truck Series standings, Honeycutt’s departure underscores the swift changes in team dynamics ahead of the 2026 season, as he aligns with a new team and OEM.
Discussion on Iowa’s Future Place in the NASCAR Cup Series Schedule
Debate has emerged on whether Iowa Speedway merits a Cup Series date starting in 2026. However, many argue that Iowa has more than earned its spot, having consistently sold out events and delivered competitive races in the lower series for over a decade. Issues such as clean air difficulties and fuel mileage-focused racing have sparked criticism, but these challenges are generally attributed to car performance rather than the track itself.
Amy Henderson noted recently that while some aspects of the race were less exciting, the Iowa track remains unique on the schedule and deserving of continued inclusion. Its distinct layout challenges drivers in ways no other venue does, which is a vital part of maintaining a diverse and rigorous series calendar. The consensus favors maintaining one annual race at Iowa to preserve variety and fan interest.
Evaluating Justin Allgaier’s Recent Performance Fluctuations
Justin Allgaier, defending Xfinity Series champion, has experienced a rollercoaster of results over the past month, with finishes ranging wildly from 4th to 36th place. Despite this inconsistent stretch, historical trends indicate this may be a familiar pattern rather than a sign of decline. Last season showed a similar mid-season slump followed by a strong finish that secured Allgaier’s championship.
Allgaier’s experience and previous successes at key tracks like Las Vegas and Bristol provide confidence that he will recover in the remaining races. Current struggles should not yet raise alarm about his championship prospects, as he has ample opportunity to rebound and compete effectively in the upcoming events.
Brent Crews’ Dominance in Practice and the Formation of His New ARCA Team
Brent Crews, an emerging talent in the Truck Series, has made a significant impression by sweeping both practice and qualifying sessions to earn the pole position at Watkins Glen in ARCA competition. This comes amid the recent announcement of Brent Crews Motorsports, a new team formed by Crews himself, marking his debut as both driver and owner this weekend in the No. 70 Toyota Tundra.
Unlike many driver/owner ventures, Crews carries substantial industry connections, including relationships with veterans like Nick Tucker and Brian Keselowski. His track record features wins at multiple levels including ARCA Menards, CARS Tour, and Trans Am racing, demonstrating versatility and competitiveness beyond just road courses.
Crews’ initial team announcement caused some confusion when he jokingly named road racers Connor Zilisch and Jesse Love as team executives, which Chevrolet reportedly did not find amusing given Crews’ Toyota affiliation. Despite early missteps, the team’s strong start and Crews’ pedigree suggest a promising future in NASCAR’s competitive landscape.
The Growing Importance of Road Course Specialists in NASCAR
Drivers such as Connor Zilisch, Shane Van Gisbergen, and Chase Elliott highlight the increasing significance of road course racing talent in NASCAR’s top divisions. As the schedule features more road courses, these specialists are proving vital to team success and reshaping strategic priorities across series. Young phenoms like Zilisch, with multiple road course wins at a young age, are demonstrating that mastery of diverse tracks is key for sustained competitive advantage.
This shift is influencing team decisions and opening pathways for new talents to accelerate their progression into higher levels, as evidenced by Zilisch’s opportunity to compete in all three national series races at Watkins Glen. The weekend’s events may further showcase how road course prowess can translate into race victories and career momentum.