Connor Zilisch has emerged as one of many higher drivers within the NASCAR Xfinity Collection this yr. The rookie has received 9 races thus far and is wanting promising for a lot of extra. Zilisch has cruised into the playoffs and is wanting like one of many favorites to win the title in his maiden yr.
Though the 18-year-old has been among the best drivers this yr, JGR Veteran Denny Hamlin makes a stunning declare on the previous’s championship probabilities. Connor Zilisch has already clinched the Xfinity Common Collection Championship after main the pack in his rookie season.
Zilisch even received the Gateway race and additional proved his racing prowess to the grid. The Xfinity Collection rookie already has a Cup Collection seat lined up for him at Trackhouse Racing within the 2026 season. The 18-year-old is more likely to transfer via the playoff spherical, particularly together with his large factors cushion heading into the playoffs.
Though Zilisch is among the finest drivers this yr, he’ll face stiff competitors from the rivals, particularly Justin Allgaier, as he strikes up the playoff rounds. Although the #88 driver might need an important shot on the championship, Denny Hamlin believes that he won’t win the championship if it comes all the way down to the ultimate race.
Denny Hamlin didn’t mince his phrases whereas claiming that Connor Zilisch was going to lose the championship this yr. Hamlin famous that if Zilisch made it to the Championship-4, he may be the favourite to win the title.
Nonetheless, when it comes all the way down to the Phoenix race, the #88 driver would lose in opposition to Justin Allgaier, who has been very robust there. The 44-year-old additional made a wild prediction that the JRM star may win ten races this yr however nonetheless lose out on the championship.
Sure (he’ll lose the championship). If he makes it to Phoenix, he’ll be the favourite, however in opposition to Justin (Allgaier) who’s elite there… I’mma make a wild prediction. I feel the #88 wins 10 races and doesn’t win the championship.
Denny Hamlin mentioned on the Actions Detrimental Podcast.
