At Daytona, 19-year-old Connor Zilisch made a strategic mid-race driver change that led to an unexpected victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Recovering from a shoulder injury, Zilisch opted to start from the back despite earning pole position, then handed the driving duties to Parker Kligerman during an early weather caution, a move that ultimately secured the win for JR Motorsports.
Injury Influences Strategic Decision at Daytona
Connor Zilisch, who carries a titanium plate and multiple screws in his shoulder from a recent injury, chose to avoid the intense risks involved in racing within the tightly packed field. Although he earned the pole position after qualifying was canceled due to weather conditions, Zilisch deliberately started at the rear to minimize exposure early in the event.
When an early caution flag waved due to incoming weather, Zilisch seized the chance to get out of the car quickly. He handed over the No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet to Parker Kligerman, who was serving as the team’s backup driver. This driver swap was essential as Kligerman could continue the race without risking further injury to Zilisch.
Points and Championship Implications of the Driver Change
The decision to swap drivers played a significant role in Zilisch’s season goals. Though any points earned by Kligerman contribute to Zilisch’s regular season championship bid, Kligerman was ineligible to score playoff bonus points from stage victories or the race win itself. This unique arrangement allowed Zilisch to maintain his title hopes while prioritizing safety.
Reflecting on his decision to exit the car, Zilisch said,
“It all felt good, as I expected,”
and added,
“It’s just not worth the risk to put myself in danger of having a big wreck and re-injuring something that’s so freshly injured. I’m glad I was able to hand it to Parker. There’s not many guys I’d rather have than him. I’m excited to watch him. Obviously, sucks getting out of a car that’s as fast as Xfinity Mobile (series sponsor plug), and a car I know is capable of winning the race, but I’ve got confidence that Parker will do a good job.”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver
Background on Zilisch’s Injury and Recovery
The injury occurred just two weeks earlier when Zilisch broke his collarbone after falling off his car while celebrating in Victory Lane at Watkins Glen. His condition was uncertain until shortly before the race, with improving symptoms prompting his initial plan to start the event. As he explained,
“It’s part of it,”
followed by,
“It shouldn’t be part of it, but because I fell off my race car, it is part of it.”
—Connor Zilisch, Driver
Kligerman’s Drive Leads to Historic Team Victory
Parker Kligerman capitalized on the opportunity, navigating the closing laps to bring the No. 88 car across the finish line first in a JR Motorsports 1-2-3 sweep. This victory marked the first time since 2007 at Milwaukee that a NASCAR Xfinity race winner had been driven by two different drivers. Kligerman’s steady performance ensured that Zilisch earned valuable points as the regular season championship pursuit continues.
Implications for JR Motorsports and the Xfinity Series
This win highlights the unique challenges and teamwork involved in NASCAR events, especially when driver health impacts strategy. JR Motorsports demonstrated depth in their driver lineup, and Zilisch’s cautious approach balanced both safety and competitiveness. Moving forward, this partnership could serve as a model for handling unexpected injuries while preserving championship aspirations.
The successful mid-race driver swap at Daytona underscores the unpredictable nature of motorsports and the importance of adaptability. As the season progresses, Zilisch aims to recover fully and return behind the wheel with strengthened resolve, while Kligerman’s contribution this weekend will be remembered as a defining moment in his career as well as Zilisch’s young trajectory.