Connor Zilisch, one of NASCAR’s rising stars, is reportedly in discussions with Hendrick Motorsports, a potential game-changer for his career. Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has closely mentored Zilisch, revealed the news during a recent conversation, sparking excitement among fans and insiders. Hendrick Motorsports is one of NASCAR’s most prestigious teams, known for its legacy of championship drivers and dominant performance in the Cup Series.
Zilisch has had an impressive career so far, with his journey beginning in karting and progressing through road racing. His talent was showcased in various series, including his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Circuit of the Americas, where he set a track record during qualifying and fought his way to a fourth-place finish despite starting from the back of the grid. His racing resume also includes standout performances in endurance racing, winning the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring in 2024. These successes have made him one of the hottest prospects in the sport.
In 2025, Zilisch will drive full-time for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series, which is a significant step in his development. He’s already set to get a taste of Xfinity competition in the 2024 season, with races scheduled at Watkins Glen, Kansas Speedway, Homestead-Miami, and Phoenix Raceway. His potential deal with Hendrick Motorsports suggests that his progression through the ranks might be even faster than expected, with a potential Cup Series future on the horizon.
The collaboration between JR Motorsports and Hendrick Motorsports has been a key pathway for young drivers transitioning from the Xfinity Series to the Cup Series. Hendrick Motorsports has a rich history of grooming drivers like Chase Elliott and William Byron, both of whom came through this system. Zilisch, with his versatility across different racing formats and strong performances in ARCA, trucks, and endurance races, seems poised to follow in their footsteps. The possibility of joining Hendrick Motorsports represents a massive opportunity for him to reach the highest levels of NASCAR.
This potential move could prove to be a defining moment for Zilisch’s career. At only 17 years old, his versatility has impressed veteran drivers and team owners alike. His performances in late model stock cars and his dominance in road course races have shown he can handle diverse racing environments. Joining a team like Hendrick Motorsports would provide Zilisch access to top-tier resources and a wealth of experience, which would be crucial for his long-term development.
For Zilisch, this opportunity isn’t just about racing; it’s a chance to cement his place as one of NASCAR’s future stars. Hendrick Motorsports has long been the home of champions, and if Zilisch signs with them, he could be following in the footsteps of legends. Fans are now anxiously waiting to see how this potential deal unfolds, knowing it could mark the beginning of a new chapter for both Zilisch and the sport itself.
“Connor Zilisch in Talks with Hendrick Motorsports: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Reveals Potential Deal”
