Zilisch's Last-Lap Pass Secures Third Watkins Glen Win

Connor Zilisch claimed his third consecutive O'Reilly Auto Parts Series win at Watkins Glen on Saturday evening, delivering a dramatic last-lap pass on reigning series champion Jesse Love. Zilisch, who previously won at the track in 2024 and last summer, expressed his satisfaction with the victory and making it off the car safely this time. This marks Zilisch's second win of the current season, offering a boost to his NASCAR Cup Series campaign.

Despite damaging his splitter on the final laps after going off-track, Zilisch was able to capitalize when Jesse Love, who had been leading due to a strategic fuel stretch, made a mistake on the final corner. Love acknowledged his own errors in the closing laps and expressed embarrassment over the missed opportunity to beat his close friend.

Love's runner-up finish highlighted the competitive rivalry between the two drivers, both vying for a significant road course victory. As Love heads into his championship defense, he intends to learn from this painful experience. Meanwhile, Zilisch looks to carry the momentum from his Watkins Glen success into his Cup Series season.