Connor Zilisch has opened up on the biggest difference he's felt driving at Daytona ahead of a promotion this year.
The teenager will drive the Rolex 24 this weekend in the GTP class for the first time, the highest class in the race, allowing him to go for overall glory for the first time in his young career.
Zilisch will team up with Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber and Frederik Vesti to pilot the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac, his first time racing in a car with hybrid power – meaning that he has to adjust his braking style and think more about saving energy.
The youngster does have some success at the track, having taken victory in the LMP2 class back in 2024 alongside Ryan Dalziel, Dwight Merriman and Christian Rasmussen.
Zilisch excited to step up
Zilisch has recently spoken to the Daytona Beach News-Journal about the step up to the GTP class, explaining: “I think the biggest thing is the hybrid system.
"It changes a lot of how you drive and all the controls inside the cockpit. I’d say that’s the biggest difference, and then also managing traffic when you’re the fastest car. It’s a little bit different doing that and just the rhythm of the race.
“Also, the competitiveness – every driver in GTP belongs there. They’re all really, really talented, and the teams are also very, very competitive. So yeah, it’s exciting to get to race for an overall win.”
Zilisch will be back at Daytona in February to start his debut full-time NASCAR Cup Series season, which will kick off with the Daytona 500 on February 15.
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