DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Trackhouse Racing has confirmed the rumors; Connor Zilisch will move up to the NASCAR Cup Series full-time in 2026.
According to a Saturday announcement, the North Carolina native will finish out his rookie Xfinity Series season with JR Motorsports. Once the checkered flag waves at Phoenix Raceway in November, he will he prepare for a major change, one that involves a multi-year contract.
Zilisch, who leads the Xfinity Series with seven wins, will take over the No. 99 Chevrolet in 2026 and beyond as he becomes teammates with Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. He will pursue his first win at NASCAR's top level while continuing to gain experience in the Gen 7 car.
According to Marks, Red Bull and WeatherTech will be the anchor sponsors as Zilisch moves up to the Cup Series. The team will provide further details about the car number, crew chief, and crew lineup in the coming weeks.
NEWS: Welcome to the NASCAR Cup Series, @ConnorZilisch‼️
The 19-year-old will race full-time for The House beginning in 2026 and beyond. pic.twitter.com/K4SvTHOD0V
— Trackhouse Racing (@TeamTrackhouse) August 23, 2025
"This day has been a dream of mine for a long time," Zilisch said in a press release. "Cup racing has been the goal since joining with Chevrolet and Trackhouse, and while I didn't know it would come this soon, I feel like I'm ready.
"I know the challenge that awaits entering the Cup Series as a full-time driver, but I feel that with the support of Trackhouse and Chevrolet, this is the right situation for me. I won't be making any predictions for success next year. All I promise is to put in 100% effort, learn all that I can, plus have a little bit of fun along the way!"
Zilisch has already made his Cup Series debut with Trackhouse Racing. He made his first start at Circuit of the Americas this spring while driving the No. 87 Red Bull Chevrolet.
He then returned to the entry at Charlotte Motor Speedway and EchoPark Speedway. He posted a career-best 11th-place finish at EchoPark Speedway.
Zilisch had the Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International on his schedule He did not take part in this event after falling in victory lane and breaking his collarbone.
"We are excited for Connor to get the opportunity to compete full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026," said Dr. Eric Warren, Vice President of Global Motorsports Competition for General Motors.
"What Connor has been able to accomplish in NASCAR over the last year has been remarkable. He has the drive and commitment to put in the work on and off the track, and we look forward to seeing his continued success in NASCAR's top division."