Connor Zilisch is expected to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Wawa 250 scheduled for Friday at Daytona International Speedway. JR Motorsports provided an update on Zilisch’s condition to NASCAR.com’s Zach Sturniolo on Monday, highlighting the cautious approach to his recovery ahead of the race.
The 19-year-old driver is recuperating from surgery to fix a broken collarbone, an injury he suffered after the Aug. 9 race at Watkins Glen International. The injury occurred when Zilisch fell from the top of his car while celebrating in Victory Lane, as his left foot reportedly got caught in the window net during his exit.
Decision-Making Process for Zilisch’s Return at Daytona
Having had a week off before the Daytona event has been valuable for Zilisch’s recovery. Justin Marks, owner of Trackhouse Racing, described the decision about Zilisch’s readiness as a collective and cautious process. While Zilisch is eager to race, Marks acknowledged the importance of weighing the risks of rushing a return, especially at a challenging track like Daytona.
Marks told SiriusXM NASCAR Radio on Monday that Zilisch’s participation in the race remains uncertain and could ultimately be a game-time decision, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety over haste.
So, it’s kind of a day-by-day deal right now. This will be a big week to see how his rehab goes and his comfort level and all that stuff. And it could end up being a game-time decision. I know that we all want him back in the race car. He wants to be back in the race car. JRM wants him to be back in the race car. But we’ve got to make smart decisions, so I would just say, stay tuned on that one.
—Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing Owner
Shane van Gisbergen’s Experience and Support for Zilisch’s Comeback
Teammate Shane van Gisbergen, who raced for JRM/Trackhouse Racing, expressed understanding and encouragement for Zilisch, drawing from his own experience recovering from a collarbone injury. Van Gisbergen fractured his collarbone in 2021 during a mountain bike accident and returned to competition just two weeks later.
He contacted Zilisch after hearing about the injury and shared insights on the healing process, emphasizing how a collarbone is one of the better bones to break in terms of recovery for race drivers. He also spoke about the physical discomfort drivers experience when wearing belts over the surgical area.
My injury was probably worse than his. I did like my AC [joint] and three ribs as well on a mountain bike accident and then I had one week off and raced the next week, which is exactly what he’s got. He’s got Richmond off and then Daytona, so he should be fine,
van Gisbergen said on the Dale Jr. Download.
Your collarbone — it’s probably the best major bone you can break. You bolt it together and it’s stronger than it was. The hardest thing is putting on the belts. You feel the bolts in the collarbone through the belts and it’s just irritating and annoying.
But yeah, he could — if it’s just the collarbone — he could race at Daytona or even this weekend. … I did that, broke my collarbone and raced the next race. I raced for three or four months and when we had a break, I took the plate out again and it was brand new. He can be fine. That was horrible to see. Initially, I thought he had done his knee or his ankle. Luckily, collarbone is a relatively OK bone to break.
—Shane van Gisbergen, JRM/Trackhouse Racing Teammate
Zilisch’s Standing in the Xfinity Series and Outlook
Connor Zilisch leads the Xfinity Series points after securing his sixth win of the season at Watkins Glen, maintaining a seven-point lead over teammate Justin Allgaier as they compete for the regular season title. His strong performance despite the injury highlights his determination and potential continued success.
Given the competitive nature of the championship and Zilisch’s current form, his return to racing at Daytona could have significant implications for the season. However, all parties involved remain cautious to ensure his long-term wellbeing.
The Road Ahead for Zilisch and JR Motorsports
As the Wawa 250 approaches, the decision on Zilisch’s participation will unfold based on ongoing assessments of his rehabilitation progress and comfort level. JR Motorsports and Trackhouse Racing recognize the delicate balance between eagerness and prudence. Making the right call will affect not only Zilisch’s health but also the trajectory of his promising racing career.
This game-time decision will be closely monitored by fans, teammates, and the NASCAR community, as the team prioritizes safety while seeking to maintain their championship ambitions with their leading driver.