A Surprise on the Road Course
Connor Zilisch made an immediate impact in his first start on the Craftsman Truck Series, finishing second at the historic Watkins Glen International. The 20‑year‑old, who entered the series with a strong road‑course pedigree, held off a pack of experienced competitors to secure a podium finish that surprised many observers.
The momentum will carry forward as his teammate, Shane van Gisbergen, is slated to take the wheel of the No. 71 Chevrolet for the upcoming event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Van Gisbergen, a multi‑time New Zealand champion, brings a fresh perspective to the ride, and the team has confirmed that the car will be fielded only for that weekend.
Spire Motorsports, the organization that operates the No. 71 truck, has indicated that there are no additional plans for the vehicle beyond the Charlotte race. The team’s lineup decisions reflect a strategic focus on short‑term commitments while it evaluates broader program options for the remainder of the season.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Kyle Busch is slated to drive the No. 7 Chevrolet in a separate entry, bringing his two victories from four starts this year to the track. Meanwhile, Carson Hocevar, who is scheduled to contest a dozen Truck Series events this season, will instead devote his attention to the upcoming Coca‑Cola 600, a marquee endurance race that promises its own set of challenges.
The race at Charlotte will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1, giving fans across the United States a chance to follow the action as it unfolds. With a mix of rookie breakthroughs and veteran performances, the series continues to blend tradition with fresh storylines that keep viewers engaged week after week.