NASCAR phenom Connor Zilisch on 'outlandish' expectations for rookie Cup Series campaign

In a NASCAR era crying out for more superstar drivers, we might just have another one in Connor Zilisch.

The teenage phenom had a record-breaking campaign in the Xfinity Series last season in terms of victories (10), and has now been promoted to Cup Series action full-time, driving the No. 88 Chevrolet at Trackhouse Racing.

Although it was a disappointing start to the season at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, finishing 33rd, at just 19 years old, it is very clear he has a huge future ahead of him.

As a result, NASCAR fans are expecting big things and can't wait to see how he gets on in 2026.

WATCH FOR FREE: We've Lost Dale Earnhardt: 25 Years Later

Zilisch on high Cup Series expectations

Speaking during Daytona 500 media day, ahead of The Great American Race, Zilisch was asked about those expectations heading into the season.

“Yeah, I appreciate the excitement," Zilisch said. "I think it’s really cool that there’s a lot of people excited to watch how I’m going to do this season, whether it’s fans or media.

"I do think it sometimes gets a little outlandish… a lot of people maybe expecting a lot of me in my first year. I don’t think people realize how big of a jump it is from Saturday to Sunday. But I try not to pay too much attention to it.

"I know what my personal goals are throughout the year. I know what I want to accomplish and my long-term goals. I find it cool mostly.”

Jeff Gordon comparisons

An example of just how highly Zilisch is rated is the fact that he has been compared to NASCAR legend and four-time Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon.

"Yeah, it’s hard to comprehend, I would say," Zilisch said on the comparison and his reaction to it. "I think it’s – I don’t know why yet, right?

"I’ve run, obviously, a lot of races in the lower levels. But, you know, to be compared to Jeff Gordon, I feel like you’ve got to do something at this level and I’ve yet to do that.

"I haven’t had the opportunity to do that. That starts this year, and I’m hoping to make a name for myself. It’s certainly going to take time to get to the level of a guy like him.”