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Connor Zilisch battles through cautions to win Watkins Glen Xfinity Series race

JHby: Jonathan Howard08/09/25Jondean25
Connor Zilisch wins Watkins Glen
Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn

Despite so many issues on the track, even involving himself, Connor Zilisch wins again in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen. Zilisch won at The Glen last year in his debut. He has now picked up his seventh career win and the sixth of the season.

Connor Zilisch was in a very physical race today. It was physical with his teammate, Shane van Gisbergen. The two got into each other, and the 9 was wrecked out of the race. Then there was the contact from Austin Hill, who almost spun Zilisch out on a late restart.

This race got a little messy, but Zilisch persevered. When it comes to this track, no one is better than this 19-year-old.

Connor Zilisch led 60 of 82 laps. We had a red flag that lasted for 45 minutes after a 16 car wreck changed the race completely. Zilisch had his own mistakes on the track. He got into Shane van Gisbergen and buried him in a wall. But, by getting the win, it kind of all washes away.

Back from his suspension, we saw Austin Hill get into hot water once again. His aggressive style of racing was not necessarily what fans and drivers wanted to see right after he was punished by NASCAR for right rear hooking Aric Almirola.

Unfortunately, the celebration was short-lived. The CW was going to do the winner’s interview in victory lane rather than on the frontstretch. Zilisch fell from his car and appeared to hit his head on the ground.

Connor Zilisch falls out of car after Watkins Glen victory

A terrible development as Connor Zilisch exited his car in victory lane. The driver fell and is receiving medical attention. Zilisch won the Watkins Glen Xfinity Series race just moments before the fall.

Right now, medical personnel are attending to Connor Zilisch at the track. This is a terrible situation that everyone is hoping ends with good news. To see that accident after a well-earned win is shocking and likely upsetting for many fans watching at home.

There were reports from The CW broadcast that Zilisch was speaking to medical personnel. He was later seen sitting up in the ambulance as he made his way to the infield care center.

UPDATE: Connor Zilisch has been transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. There has not been anymore word on his condition at the moment. JR Motorsports will provide all further updates on his status and medical condition.

Zilisch is scheduled to race tomorrow in the Cup Series for Trackhouse Racing. That looks unlikely at the moment. It remains to be seen who, if anyone, will take over for Zilisch in tomorrow’s race if he is unable to compete.