Connor Zilisch Wins NASCAR O'Reilly Race at Bristol

Rookie overcomes late strategy call by veteran Kyle Larson to take checkered flag

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:08am

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An abstract, cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes of color representing the cars and drivers competing in a NASCAR race, conveying the speed, energy, and intensity of the event.A fractured, cubist-inspired illustration captures the raw energy and competitive spirit of the NASCAR O'Reilly race at Bristol Motor Speedway.Bristol Today

In a race dominated by reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson, 19-year-old rookie Connor Zilisch capitalized on a late strategy decision by Larson to claim victory in the Suburban Propane 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Zilisch, who has struggled in his first Cup Series season, used a timely caution and a strong restart to hold off Larson and Brent Crews in a thrilling finish.

Why it matters

The win is a much-needed boost for Zilisch, who has faced challenges in his rookie Cup Series campaign. The race also highlighted the continued dominance of Larson, the reigning champion, and the intense competition in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

The details

Larson led the majority of the race, claiming stage wins in the first two segments. However, a late caution with 30 laps remaining forced Larson to pit, while Zilisch stayed out. Zilisch was able to hold off Larson and Crews on the final restart to secure his 12th career O'Reilly Series victory at the Bristol short track.

  • On the opening lap, Mason Maggio spun to bring out the first caution of the night.
  • Larson led wire-to-wire to win Stage 1.
  • Larson continued his dominance in Stage 2, but Zilisch was able to track him down.
  • A caution with 30 laps remaining set up the decisive final restart.
  • Zilisch held off Larson and Crews in a thrilling finish to claim the victory.

The players

Connor Zilisch

A 19-year-old driver in his rookie season in the NASCAR Cup Series, who claimed his 12th career victory in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Kyle Larson

The reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion, who dominated the majority of the race before a late strategy call allowed Zilisch to take the win.

Brent Crews

A driver who finished third in the thrilling final restart battle with Zilisch and Larson.

Mason Maggio

A driver who spun on the opening lap to bring out the first caution of the race.

William Sawalich

The pole sitter for the race.

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What they’re saying

“That was awesome. It's been a tough past few weeks for me in the Cup Series, and feels good to come back down here into the O'Reilly Series and remember that I can still do it. It's tough. You finish in the back every week, and you forget who you are.”

— Connor Zilisch, Driver

What’s next

The NASCAR Cup Series will head to Talladega Superspeedway next weekend, where Larson will look to bounce back and Zilisch will try to build on his momentum from the Bristol win.

The takeaway

This race showcased the talent and resilience of young driver Connor Zilisch, who was able to overcome a dominant performance by veteran Kyle Larson to claim a much-needed victory in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. The race also highlighted the intense competition and strategy involved in NASCAR short-track racing.