CONNOR ZILISCH JOINS HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS FROM 2028

Hendrick Motorsports announced that Connor Zilisch will drive the No. 48 car from 2028, replacing Alex Bowman who departs after 2027. Zilisch, currently competing for Trackhouse Racing, will move to the NASCAR Cup Series team after developing through junior categories including the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. Rick Hendrick, head of Hendrick Motorsports, stated in a press release that Zilisch possessed "exceptional" talent and character, and that the organisation had "tremendous confidence" in him to build on the No. 48 car's legacy. Ally will continue as the primary sponsor of the No. 48 car following the driver change.

Zilisch currently sits 34th in the Cup Series standings and has recorded eight DNFs (Did Not Finish results) at Trackhouse Racing. His junior record included ten victories in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing principal, had previously responded to speculation about Zilisch's future by stating it was the team's responsibility to present itself as an attractive destination. The move from Trackhouse to Hendrick represents a significant step up in Zilisch's career, comparable to Chase Briscoe's transition from Stewart-Haas Racing to Joe Gibbs Racing.

The announcement positions Zilisch as Chevrolet's emerging prospect in the Cup Series alongside other rising drivers: Corey Heim, representing 23XI Racing and Toyota, and Jesse Love with the Wood Brothers and Ford. The 2028 driver change completes a reshuffling of personnel at Hendrick Motorsports ahead of the new decade.