Connor Zilisch will drive a NASCAR Chevy in the Cup Series in 2026, joining Trackhouse Racing in the highest echelon of North American stock car racing.

D AYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Nineteen-year-old Connor Zilisch, seen as a budding star for years to come, will move up to the Cup Series next season for Trackhouse Racing, the team announced Saturday. "It's a day I've been dreaming about for a long time," Zilisch said.

Connor Zilisch paused to compose himself before wiping away tears, then spent the next 20 minutes using his shirt as a handkerchief. It was an emotional promotion at Daytona International Speedway, even if it was one of the worst-kept secrets in NASCAR this season.