Connor Zilisch cleared to return after breaking collarbone

Field Level Media|published: Thu 21st August, 14:12 2025

Connor Zilisch (88) puts in earpieces during NASCAR Xfinity Series qualifying on Aug. 2, 2025, at Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa.

Connor Zilisch has been medically cleared to return to the track and will drive the No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in Friday's NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Daytona International Speedway.

Zilisch, 19, fractured his collarbone on Aug. 9 after his celebration in Victory Lane went awry at Watkins Glen International. Three days later, he underwent surgery that required doctors to add a plate and screws to his collarbone.

The Xfinity Series points leader, Zilisch did not miss a race despite undergoing surgery. He holds a seven-point lead over teammate Justin Allgaier.

Portland International Raceway (Aug. 30) and World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway (Sept. 6) will conclude the regular season.

It is expected that Zilisch, a North Carolina native, will move full-time to the Cup Series in 2026.

--Field Level Media