Connor Zilisch, the 19-year-old NASCAR Xfinity winner, was injured moments after his victory at Watkins Glen International when he slipped while exiting his No. 88 car and fell onto his side. The incident happened as he celebrated with his team, shortly after securing his sixth win of the Xfinity season.
After climbing partially onto the roof of his car in victory lane, Zilisch’s foot caught in the window netting, causing him to lose balance and fall immediately. He remained on the ground for several minutes while medical personnel rushed to his side, and the CW Network cameras cut away from the scene to allow for treatment.
Emergency Response and Medical Condition Following the Fall
According to Steven Taranto of CBS Sports, Zilisch stayed conscious and was communicating with medical staff at Victory Lane. He was carefully placed on a backboard before being moved into an ambulance for transport to a nearby care center. Reports from Dustin Long confirmed that Zilisch was alert enough to sit up while inside the ambulance.
“#NASCAR … Xfinity winner Connor Zilisch is loaded into an ambulance to go to the care center after falling in victory lane. He sat up in the ambulance.” — Dustin Long
Race Context and Upcoming Events for Connor Zilisch
The Xfinity Series race on Saturday encountered a 45-minute delay following a 16-car wreck triggered by Austin Hill, who was returning from a one-race suspension. This major incident occurred with nine laps remaining in the final stage of the race.
Zilisch had planned to compete in three consecutive NASCAR events this weekend, including the Truck Series on Friday, the Xfinity Series on Saturday, and the Cup Series on Sunday. Trackhouse Racing is expected to announce soon that Zilisch will join the Cup Series full-time next season, taking over for Daniel Suarez.
The Xfinity Series will resume on Friday, August 22, at Daytona International Speedway, where Zilisch is anticipated to compete again.