Connor Zilisch, the 20‑year‑old rookie who finished 34th last season, has signed a multi‑year deal with Hendrick Motorsports, beginning in 2028, and will drive the No.48 Ally Chevrolet for the team.
Hendrick secures Zilisch for 2028
Trackhouse Racing’s founder, Justin Marks, acknowledged the move publicly, stating that Zilisch’s arrival “is a bittersweet moment for Trackhouse, but I am truly happy for Connor to get an opportunity that many drivers only dream of.” Marks noted the team’s intention to keep Zilisch in their cars through 2027 and to prepare the 88 Chevy for a new driver in 2028, while “the mandate remains to work hard, accomplish big things with Connor while we have him.”
2025 and 2026 results
In 2025, Zilisch secured ten victories in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series before moving up to the Cup Series. His 2026 campaign, however, proved challenging: eight DNFs, only a single top‑ten finish (seventh at Sonoma), and a ranking of 35th in the championship, trailing just Cody Ware.
Despite the struggles, Zilisch is slated to capture Rookie of the Year honors in 2026, becoming the sole rookie candidate after two‑time winner Corey Heim was ineligible.
Trackhouse internal dynamics
Trackhouse began as a single‑car operation in 2021 with Daniel Suarez. The team expanded to two cars after acquiring Chip Ganassi Racing, adding Ross Chastain in 2022. A third full‑time seat joined in 2025 with Shane van Gisbergen, who replaces Suarez in 2026. Zane Smith was released mid‑2024 after a stint with Spire.
Both Chastain’s and van Gisbergen’s contracts expire after the 2027 season, leaving the third seat uncertain as Trackhouse prepares for a new driver in 2028.
With Hendrick’s early commitment, Zilisch will be one of the few Cup Series drivers to secure a long‑term role before the season commences, positioning him advantageously as the 2028 championship approaches.
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