League: NASCAR Sport: Motorsports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Connor Zilisch looks to bounce back during NASCAR Cup Series stretch

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 12:21 AM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Connor Zilisch looks to bounce back during NASCAR Cup Series stretch

Summary

Connor Zilisch is set to return to the track as the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season resumes this weekend at Iowa Speedway. After struggling through his rookie year, Zilisch has collected eight DNFs and only one top-10 finish, placing him 34th in the points standings. The time off allowed him to reset mentally, which he hopes will lead to better performance in the final 14 races of the season. Amid speculation regarding his future, Zilisch is seen as a leading candidate to take over the No. 48 car at Hendrick Motorsports following Alex Bowman's retirement in 2027.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Zilisch aims for a strong finish after an off week.
•He recorded the worst average finish at 28.1 this season.
•The driver is set to compete at Iowa Speedway this Sunday.
•He is rumored to be a frontrunner for the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports ride in 2028.
•Zilisch's struggles follow a successful previous season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Latest Updates

12:21 AMYahoo Sports — NASCAR Cup Series Rookie Feels Reset After Off Week Amid 2026 Struggles

What they're saying

"
Connor Zilisch feels ready to get back behind the wheel for the final 14 races of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. The driver of the No. 88 aims to end the season on a high note in what has been a struggle for the rookie in 2026. Zilisch sits 34th in the points standings amid […] The post NASCAR Cup Series Rookie Feels Reset After Off Week Amid 2026 Struggles appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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