Rising NASCAR talent Connor Zilisch Earns Coveted Daytona Prototype Test with Cadillac Racing

Daytona Beach, FL – In a significant development for his burgeoning motorsport career, NASCAR Xfinity Series runner-up Connor Zilisch is set to make his debut behind the wheel of an LMDh prototype, participating in an IMSA-sanctioned test at the iconic Daytona International Speedway from November 14th to 16th. The 19-year-old phenom will join a formidable lineup in the #31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R, sharing driving duties with seasoned professionals Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Frederik Vesti.

This high-profile opportunity comes as Zilisch is being actively evaluated by the factory Cadillac squad for a potential drive in the prestigious GT Prototype (GTP) class for the upcoming 2025 season, with a particular focus on the demanding Rolex 24 at Daytona. Zilisch, a native of Clemmons, North Carolina, has already demonstrated considerable prowess in sports car racing, securing two victories in the LMP2 class within the IMSA SportsCar Championship this season. His impressive performances have clearly caught the attention of the Cadillac program, which fields one of the premier entries in the top-tier GTP category.

"Hopefully, we’re going to make the most of it and see if this can lead to more opportunities for me in the Cadillac, because it would be super cool for me to be able to race at the highest levels of endurance racing," Zilisch stated regarding the test. "That’s always been a dream of mine." The prospect of competing in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, a race steeped in history and a true test of man and machine, represents a significant step in his ambition to excel in global endurance racing.

The announcement of Zilisch’s Daytona test arrives on the heels of a recent setback. Just days prior, he was denied an opportunity to test the Cadillac LMDh in the World Endurance Championship’s (WEC) Bahrain rookie test. The reason cited was a deficiency in ACCUS (Automobile Competition Committee for the United States) license points, a requirement for international series participation. This situation arose directly from the conclusion of the NASCAR Xfinity Series season, where Zilisch narrowly missed out on the championship title.

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Zilisch was considered a strong favorite to win the Xfinity Series championship in 2024. However, under NASCAR’s playoff format, the ultimate victor was determined by Jesse Love. The controversial nature of the playoff system, which often prioritizes race wins and playoff performance over season-long consistency, has been a subject of debate within the NASCAR community. This outcome directly impacted Zilisch’s ACCUS license point accumulation, preventing him from participating in the WEC rookie test.

Looking ahead, Zilisch is slated to transition to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026, a move that has been widely anticipated. He is expected to join Trackhouse Racing, a team known for its innovative approach and development of young talent. Rumors suggest he is being groomed as a potential successor to Daniel Suarez, indicating a long-term vision for Zilisch within one of NASCAR’s most prominent organizations.

The Daytona test will also feature another notable talent making his first appearance in the Cadillac V-Series.R: Colton Herta. A prominent figure in American open-wheel racing and a Cadillac Formula 1 reserve driver, Herta is charting a new course for his career, transitioning to Formula 2 next year with aspirations of reaching Formula 1. Herta brings a wealth of experience, including a victory in the 2024 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring with Acura and prior experience in the BMW M Hybrid V8. He will be driving for Wayne Taylor Racing during the official IMSA test at Daytona.

The Cadillac V-Series.R, a highly competitive LMDh prototype, has proven its mettle on the world stage. Developed in collaboration with Dallara, it features a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine paired with a hybrid powertrain. In the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the V-Series.R has been a consistent contender, challenging for wins and podiums against other manufacturer entries from Acura, BMW, Porsche, and Ferrari. Action Express Racing, the team Zilisch will join for the test, is a highly decorated outfit with multiple championships to its name in sports car racing, including previous successes in the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The IMSA-sanctioned test at Daytona International Speedway serves as a crucial prelude to the 2025 season. It provides teams and drivers with invaluable track time to evaluate car setups, gather data, and acclimatize to the demanding 3.56-mile road course. For drivers like Zilisch, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to gain experience in a completely different discipline of motorsport, one that emphasizes fuel efficiency, tire management, and strategic pacing over extended periods, distinct from the sprint nature of NASCAR oval racing.

Zilisch’s journey through the motorsport ranks has been characterized by rapid progression and a remarkable adaptability. His success in karting, followed by strong performances in regional stock car series, paved the way for his entry into the NASCAR system. His achievements in the IMSA LMP2 category highlight his versatility and potential beyond the confines of stock car racing. This Daytona test represents a pivotal moment, potentially opening doors to a career in top-tier global sports car endurance racing, a domain that attracts the world’s elite drivers. The outcome of this evaluation will be closely watched by industry insiders and fans alike as Zilisch navigates this exciting new chapter.