Rising star set to be youngest driver to make Cup Series start in 17 years

Zilisch has served as Trackhouse's development driver and dipped into the Xfinity Series last season with four starts, headlined by becoming the seventh driver in series history to win in his debut race at Watkins Glen. Zilisch joined seven-time Cup Series champion Dale Earnhardt, Joe Ruttman, 2025 Hall of Fame inductee Ricky Rudd, Hall of Famer Terry Labonte, 2004 Cup Series champion Kurt Busch and Ty Gibbs on that elusive list.

After three top fives in his four limited starts in the Xfinity Series, JR Motorsports put him in a full-time ride for the 2025 season in NASCAR's second-tier series. The opportunity at such a young age is not lost on Zilisch. 

"I was surprised when they presented me my Red Bull helmet and hat last summer and doubly surprised when they told me I would make my Cup debut in the No. 87 with a Red Bull paint scheme," Zilisch said in a release, per NASCAR.com.

While Zilisch could not compete full-time in NASCAR until he turned 18, he was eligible to compete in IMSA sports car racing and took full advantage by picking up a class win at the famed Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. He has also competed in CARS Tour late model races, Trans-Am and ARCA. That speaks to his versatility and adaptability and why he has so many huge opportunities in front of him.

This is a well-deserved opportunity for the 18-year-old. He may have limited experience in NASCAR, but he has already proved how competitive he can be on a part-time schedule. With a full Xfinity Series season ahead of him and a Cup Series debut, the future could not be brighter for Zilisch heading into the 2025 season and beyond.