Dale Earnhardt Jr. leads Connor Zilisch to first oval victory at Pocono

Connor Zilisch secured his first oval victory at Pocono Raceway with guidance from rookie crew chief and JR Motorsports co-owner — Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The 18-year-old driver managed to pass Jesse Love in the closing laps to claim his maiden oval checkered flag.

“I’ve been dying for this one for a while now. I know it hasn’t felt that long but I’ve been so close on the ovals lately. Dale Jr.’s not so bad on the box,” said Zilisch.

The NASCAR Xfinity race at Pocono featured a record ten cautions with various incidents throughout the 100-lap event. Intense competition marked the final laps — Zilisch led Love before Chase Elliott briefly took command of the lead.

“I miss the thrill of competition. I love broadcasting, don’t get me wrong, but nothing compares to driving or just being part of the team,” Earnhardt Jr. stated.

Christian Eckes finished third, followed by pole-sitter Chase Elliott in fourth and Ryan Sieg in fifth. This victory makes Dale Earnhardt Jr. the ninth person in history to achieve wins as a driver, team owner, and crew chief in NASCAR.