Dale Earnhardt Jr. becomes interim crew chief for Connor Zilisch at Pocono

JR Motorsports announced that Dale Earnhardt Jr. will serve as interim crew chief for Connor Zilisch at Pocono Raceway this weekend, replacing Mardy Lindley who received a one-race suspension.

Lindley — Zilisch’s regular crew chief — faced sanctions and a $10,000 fine for loose lug nuts violation after the Nashville Xfinity race. This marks a historic moment as the first time an Earnhardt family member will serve as crew chief across NASCAR’s three national levels.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. — son of seven-time NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt — has fulfilled various roles in NASCAR as driver, team owner, and broadcaster. During his career, he claimed 26 Cup Series victories including two Daytona 500s before entering the Hall of Fame.

Connor Zilisch, the 18-year-old rising talent under contract with Trackhouse, has already secured his playoff position following his victory at COTA earlier this season.