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PHOENIX, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 04: NASCAR Xfinity Series driver, Connor Zilisch speaks to the media during NASCAR Champions week at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa on November 04, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
The 64th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona delivered a thrilling battle at the front and a remarkable GTP debut for Connor Zilisch. At just 19, Connor Zilisch played a key role in guiding the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series R to a second-place finish in the GTP class at the 2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway.
This race marked the opening round of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, challenging teams with constantly changing conditions over 24 hours. Zilisch shared driving duties with Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Frederik Vesti, making both his first start in GTP machinery and his first top-level Rolex 24 appearance.
Connor Zilisch Adjusts to the GTP Class
Connor Zilisch arrived at the 2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona with prior LMP2 experience but had never raced in the GTP category. The step up demanded rapid adaptation during practice and his initial race stints.
“It was awesome just showing up and learning. When I first showed up, I had a lot to make up for and figure out. I felt like, come race time, I was pretty comfortable and could hold my own on the track.”
Connor Zilisch credited his more experienced teammates for helping him adjust during his first GTP race.
“I’m super grateful for all three of these guys. They took me under their wing and allowed me to learn from them. They didn’t shy away from trying to help me as much as they could. That definitely made a difference.”
The No. 31 Cadillac maintained a consistent pace over long runs and navigated multi-class traffic with composure. Strategic car updates kept the team competitive throughout both day and night segments.
Mistakes, Cautions, and Recovery
The Cadillac crew faced several setbacks overnight, including unexpected strategy shifts and on-track incidents that forced the team to fight back from adversity. A timely late caution allowed the car to re-enter contention during the closing stages.
“Yeah, obviously, I was upset at myself, but the cautions ended up falling at the right time and put us back in the race. Maybe having the track position earlier would have helped, but I don’t know if it really affected the outcome.”
Connor Zilisch acknowledged Porsche’s performance from testing through the race while reflecting on his own mistake.
“I think the Porsches were really strong, and I think everybody saw that from testing until now. Yeah, I definitely kicked myself and was upset, but looking at it from a bird’s-eye view, I don’t know if it really affected the outcome.”
Well-timed cautions allowed the Cadillac to mount a late challenge for the lead, keeping consistent pressure on the frontrunners until the final hour.
Racing Against Factory Teams
Porsche Penske Motorsport secured victory, controlling the final stages with impressive pace. The closing battle underscored the depth and competitiveness of the GTP field.
“But for me, I just think learning the car, learning the traffic, and figuring everything out was a lot of fun. It was a challenge racing against the best of the best in the world. Having to go against a lot of guys who are factory drivers and do this all the time, and for me, it’s kind of once a year, I know what I’m stepping into when I do it. I know that I need to step up and be good for my team and not let my team down.”
Despite missing out on victory, the team clinched a hard-fought second place after 24 grueling hours of competition.
“I’m just really proud of the entire team. It was a long race. We definitely had a lot of setbacks. It was a unique 24. I’m grateful they gave me the chance, and hopefully I can come back.”
The Rolex 24 once again drew large crowds and kicked off the IMSA season with a dramatic finish. While Porsche celebrated victory, the No. 31 Cadillac departed Daytona with a standout result and a successful GTP debut for Connor Zilisch.
Dogli Wilberforce is a sports writer who covers NASCAR, Formula 1 and IndyCar Series for Heavy Sports. With bylines at Total Apex Sports and Last Word on Sports, Wilberforce has built a reputation for delivering timely, engaging coverage that blends sharp analysis with accessible storytelling. Wilberforce has covered everything from major football transfers to fight-night drama, bringing readers the insight and context behind the headlines. More about Dogli Wilberforce
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