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Daytona Beach, FL – In a significant development for the burgeoning career of Connor Zilisch, the 19-year-old sensation is slated to compete in the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2026, marking his highly anticipated debut in the premier Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) class. This strategic move places Zilisch behind the wheel of the No. 31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R, a formidable machine vying for overall victory in North America’s most iconic endurance race. He will share the cockpit with a decorated trio of accomplished drivers: Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Frederik Vesti.
The announcement comes as Zilisch navigates a rapidly ascending trajectory across multiple motorsport disciplines. His participation in the 2026 Rolex 24 will precede his maiden appearance in the Daytona 500, the crown jewel of NASCAR’s Cup Series, a testament to his versatility and ambition. This dual commitment underscores the growing trend of drivers bridging the gap between stock car racing and the sophisticated world of prototype sports car racing.
Zilisch’s history with the Rolex 24 is already noteworthy. In his debut at the tender age of 17, he secured a class victory in the LMP2 category driving for Era Motorsport. This impressive performance was not an isolated incident, as the same partnership later achieved a class win in the grueling 12 Hours of Sebring later that year. Transitioning to a different challenge in 2025, Zilisch piloted a Trackhouse-prepared Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R in the GTD Pro class, finishing ninth. While a respectable showing, the 2026 season represents a significant step up, offering him a direct shot at the coveted overall win in the GTP division.
His preparation for this endeavor has already begun. Zilisch participated in a crucial November test session with Cadillac, gaining invaluable experience and official laps aboard the V-Series.R prototype. This hands-on familiarization is critical for a driver entering a new, high-performance class with complex hybrid technology and demanding aerodynamic principles. The Cadillac V-Series.R, a product of the collaboration between General Motors’ Cadillac brand and Dallara, has established itself as a front-runner in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s GTP class, demonstrating consistent pace and reliability.
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The presence of Zilisch in the GTP field at Daytona further highlights the growing crossover appeal of endurance racing. He joins fellow full-time Cup Series driver AJ Allmendinger as one of only two drivers competing in both NASCAR’s premier series and the 64th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. This convergence of talent from different racing worlds enriches the competition and broadens the audience for both disciplines.
Zilisch’s inclusion in the GTP class is particularly significant given his recent successes and burgeoning reputation in NASCAR. He emerged as one of the most promising talents in stock car racing, having secured ten victories and narrowly missing out on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship. For 2026, Zilisch is set to embark on his first full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Trackhouse Racing. This pivotal year will see him balancing a demanding Cup Series schedule with his aspirations in sports car racing’s top tier.
Action Express Racing, the team Zilisch will join for the Rolex 24, boasts a rich history of success in sports car racing. The team has been a dominant force in the IMSA series for many years, accumulating multiple championships and prestigious victories, including several wins at Daytona. Their expertise in prototype racing, coupled with their established relationship with Cadillac, provides Zilisch with a highly competitive environment for his GTP debut. The team’s roster of co-drivers—Aitken, Bamber, and Vesti—further strengthens the No. 31 entry. Aitken brings Formula 1 experience and recent success in GT racing, while Bamber is a former Le Mans winner and a seasoned prototype competitor. Vesti, a rising star in European junior formula series, offers a fresh perspective and considerable talent.
The Rolex 24 at Daytona is more than just a race; it is a grueling test of man and machine, demanding exceptional endurance, strategic precision, and flawless teamwork. The race, which spans 24 hours on the iconic Daytona International Speedway road course, features a diverse field of prototypes and GT cars battling for supremacy. The GTP class, introduced in 2023, represents the pinnacle of sports car technology, featuring advanced hybrid powertrains and sophisticated aerodynamic packages. A victory in this class is considered one of the most significant achievements in motorsport.
Zilisch’s early success in sports car racing, particularly his LMP2 win at Daytona at a young age, indicates a natural aptitude for endurance racing. His ability to adapt to different car types and racing formats is a key attribute for a driver aiming for success across disciplines. The transition to GTP, however, presents a new set of challenges. The cars are significantly faster and more complex than LMP2 machines, requiring a higher level of technical understanding and driver input. The competition in the GTP class is also exceptionally fierce, with major manufacturers like Cadillac, Porsche, BMW, Acura, and Ferrari all fielding factory-backed efforts.
The strategic decision by Trackhouse Racing to support Zilisch’s participation in the Rolex 24 GTP class speaks to their commitment to developing well-rounded drivers capable of competing at the highest levels of motorsport. By providing him with opportunities in both NASCAR’s top series and international-level sports car racing, Trackhouse is investing in Zilisch’s long-term development as a global racing talent. This approach mirrors successful career paths of other prominent drivers who have achieved success in both NASCAR and sports car racing.
The 2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona is poised to be a pivotal moment in Connor Zilisch’s career. His performance in the No. 31 Action Express Racing Cadillac V-Series.R will be closely watched by motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. A strong showing, particularly a challenge for the overall victory, would solidify his status as a genuine superstar in the making and further underscore the evolving landscape of professional motorsport. The blend of raw speed, technical acumen, and endurance required for GTP racing, combined with Zilisch’s proven track record, suggests he is well-equipped to contend for top honors. As he prepares for his Daytona 500 debut, his entry into the GTP class at the Rolex 24 adds another compelling chapter to his rapidly unfolding racing narrative.
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