P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Shane van Gisbergen has been unstoppable on road courses this year, but one driver could challenge his domination next year.
“Rising star Connor Zilisch is expected to challenge Shane van Gisbergen’s dominance on road courses as he transitions to the full-time NASCAR Cup Series next season, following a successful run in the Xfinity Series where he leads the standings as a rookie with six wins in 23 races.
Zilisch, recognized as a generational talent, made his Cup Series debut this year with Trackhouse Racing and is speculated to replace Daniel Suarez for the upcoming season.
In the recent Watkins Glen round, Zilisch outperformed van Gisbergen in a close battle, but the latter rebounded to claim his fourth Cup race win on Sunday.
Veteran Denny Hamlin of Joe Gibbs Racing predicts that Zilisch will have the edge over van Gisbergen in a direct competition, especially on road courses.
Despite breaking his collarbone while celebrating a victory, Zilisch aims to make a swift return, with his next Xfinity race scheduled for August 22 at Daytona International Speedway.”
