Connor Zilisch, the 19-year-old driver competing in the NASCAR Truck Series, has encountered a significant setback just before his race at Watkins Glen. The penalty puts a damper on his ambitious triple duty weekend, in which he plans to race in the Truck, Xfinity, and Cup Series events over the same weekend. This NASCAR Truck Series penalty update highlights challenges threatening his start to the race weekend with Niece Motorsports.
The Watkins Glen event was anticipated as an exciting moment for Zilisch, who has been successful in the Xfinity Series with Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s JR Motorsports. However, a failed pre-race inspection during NASCAR’s technical checks forced the team into a difficult position before the race even began.
Issues for Niece Motorsports Following Driver Departure
Niece Motorsports has had a turbulent week leading up to Watkins Glen. After losing 22-year-old driver Kaden Honeycutt, who recently signed a deal with Tricon Garage and Toyota for the 2026 season, Niece urgently needed a replacement driver. They chose Connor Zilisch, a rising star known for his consistent performances and multiple wins in the Xfinity Series.
Despite this strong addition, the team‘s troubles intensified when Zilisch’s truck failed the NASCAR pre-race technical inspection twice. The penalties imposed because of these failed inspections are severe: Zilisch must start at the back of the field, Niece Motorsports has lost the privilege of choosing their pit stall selection for the next race at Richmond, and their truck crew chief was ejected from Watkins Glen.
In truck tech today at the Glen, Zilisch truck failed twice so the truck chief was ejected and they will lose pit selection for Richmond.
— Bob Pockrass, NASCAR insider
These penalties reflect strict enforcement of NASCAR rules at this level and underscore the scrutiny all teams face during technical inspections. Bayley Currey has been announced as the driver who will replace Zilisch starting at Richmond, while Zilisch must cope with the consequences as he returns to Watkins Glen.
Zilisch Eyes Recovery Despite Setbacks
Although starting at the rear complicates his race strategy, Zilisch retains a busy and determined weekend schedule. After the Truck Series race at Watkins Glen, he will take the wheel in the Xfinity Series event for JR Motorsports, followed by a race in the Cup Series for Trackhouse Racing. This diversity in participation demands both skill and stamina.
Watkins Glen, known as “The Glen,” is a course where Zilisch has previously found success; he secured a win in the Xfinity Series event at this track last year. Road courses like this one are considered a specialty of his, which makes the penalty especially frustrating as it forces him to navigate through the pack rather than start near the front.
The racing community and fans have already reacted to the situation. Some have voiced their opinions on social media, often with a sarcastic tone regarding Niece Motorsports’ recent difficulties:
I love zilisch but it’s nice seeing niece get their karma.
— Fan comment
I’m sure Kaden is laughing his a** off right now, which he should.
— Fan comment
Despite the challenges, Zilisch’s talent and experience may allow him to recover ground quickly during the race, turning an initially problematic weekend into a display of resilience and skill.
Implications of the Penalty for Team and Driver
This penalty not only affects Zilisch’s immediate race prospects but also has broader consequences for Niece Motorsports, particularly the loss of pit selection at Richmond. Pit stall choice can be crucial in race strategy, influencing pit stop efficiency and overall track position. The ejection of the crew chief reflects a serious breach of NASCAR’s technical regulations, which may lead to further repercussions or changes in team operations.
For Zilisch, the weekend will be a test of his ability to overcome adversity while managing participation in three demanding series. How he performs at Watkins Glen despite these setbacks could shape his future opportunities and reputation within NASCAR’s competitive environment.