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2h ago

Connor Zilisch Cleared to Start Daytona After Collarbone Surgery

The points leader plans to start for credit, with Parker Kligerman standing by to finish if needed.

Aug 9, 2025; Watkins Glen, New York, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Connor Zilisch falls from his race car while celebrating in victory lane after winning the Mission 200 at The Glen at Watkins Glen International. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images/ File Photo
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Overview

  • Zilisch received medical clearance to qualify and take the green at Daytona 13 days after a plate-and-screws repair of a broken collarbone suffered in a Victory Lane fall at Watkins Glen.
  • JR Motorsports has Parker Kligerman on standby as a relief driver; if Zilisch starts and hands off, he keeps the race points while any stage or win playoff points earned would stay with Kligerman.
  • The 19-year-old enters Daytona atop the Xfinity standings by seven points over teammate Justin Allgaier after a six-win season with an extended top-five streak.
  • He has indicated he could start, drop to the back and exit at the first caution depending on discomfort, citing Daytona’s heightened crash risk and the priority of recovery.
  • NASCAR says it is reviewing pre-celebration safety steps, including ensuring window nets are properly secured, following the Watkins Glen incident.