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2w ago

Zilisch Claims First Oval Xfinity Triumph With Earnhardt Jr. Calling the Shots

Earnhardt Jr.’s in-race guidance transformed the temporary challenge into a winning formula behind Zilisch’s breakout oval performance

Connor Zilisch, driver of the #88 Registix Chevrolet, and JR Motorsports team owner, and fill-in crew chief Dale Earnhardt Jr. celebrate in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Xfinity Series Explore the Pocono Mountains 250 at Pocono Raceway on June 21, 2025 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.
Connor Zilisch, driver of the #88 Registix Chevrolet, celebrates after winning the NASCAR Xfinity Series Explore the Pocono Mountains 250 at Pocono Raceway on June 21, 2025 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.
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Chase Briscoe crosses the finish line to win a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Pocono Raceway, Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Long Pond, Pa. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

Overview

  • Connor Zilisch overtook Jesse Love late in the Pocono Mountains 250 to secure his first career oval victory.
  • Dale Earnhardt Jr. stepped in as interim crew chief after Mardy Lindley’s suspension for a lug nut infraction in Nashville.
  • Earnhardt Jr. credited strategy support from Steve Letarte and described the experience as a thrilling return to competition.
  • Zilisch’s roof-hatch celebration paid playful homage to Earnhardt Jr.’s well-known disdain for the gesture.
  • JR Motorsports demonstrated its depth with four cars finishing inside the top ten at Pocono Raceway.