Connor Zilisch will make his return to the NASCAR Cup Series in May as he takes on a grueling crown jewel event.
According to Trackhouse Racing, Zilisch will drive the No. 87 Chevrolet Camaro during the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 25. Red Bull will return as the primary sponsor of the No. 87 team after signing Zilisch to its athlete roster last season.
Zilisch, who races full-time in the Xfinity Series for JR Motorsports, will pull double duty at NASCAR's home track. He will compete in the Xfinity race at the 1.5-mile track on May 24, and then he will attempt to complete all 600 miles the following day.
The Coca-Cola 600 is one of the four races viewed as crown jewels. It joins the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400, and Southern 500. The Coca-Cola 600 is the longest of these events at 400 laps and 600 miles.
"It's awesome to have the opportunity to race in one of NASCAR's coolest events," Zilisch said in a press release. "The Charlotte 600 is one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR.
"It's going to be a physical and mental challenge because that race is so tough. I'm very appreciative for (Trackhouse owner and founder) Justin (Marks) and everyone at Red Bull for their support and turning this opportunity into a reality."
Zilisch made his Cup Series debut earlier this season as part of a quest to become NASCAR's youngest-ever winner in the top series. He took over the No. 87 Chevrolet at Circuit of the Americas and qualified 14th.
Zilisch ultimately finished 37th after being unable to avoid a spinning Daniel Suarez on Lap 49.
The North Carolina native will now make his return to the Cup Series to take on his first oval in the No. 87 Chevrolet.
This will also mark his first national series start at Charlotte Motor Speedway, considering that Zilisch did not make his Xfinity debut until Watkins Glen International in Sept. 14. None of his Truck Series starts were at Charlotte Motor Speedway.