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Connor Zilisch Cleared to Start Daytona Xfinity Race With Kligerman on Standby

Starting secures crucial championship points as he holds a seven-point lead entering Daytona.

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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Connor Zilisch, driver of the #88 Registix Chevrolet, celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Xfinity Series Mission 200 at The Glen at Watkins Glen International on August 09, 2025 in Watkins Glen, New York.

Overview

  • JR Motorsports said the 19-year-old was cleared by his orthopedic doctor and NASCAR’s medical staff to qualify and take the green flag Friday at Daytona.
  • Parker Kligerman will be prepared to relieve Zilisch during the race, with the team treating the decision to run the full distance as a game-time call.
  • Under NASCAR rules, Zilisch keeps the race points if he starts even if a relief driver finishes, while any playoff points earned in stages or the win stay with the relief driver.
  • Zilisch broke his collarbone in an Aug. 9 Victory Lane fall at Watkins Glen and had a plate and screws inserted on Aug. 12 after scans showed no head injury.
  • NASCAR is weighing additional checks on celebration equipment, including ensuring window nets are secured, following the incident that injured Zilisch.