Kyle Busch knows the sting of a disastrous NASCAR Cup Series debut. So when 18-year-old rookie Connor Zilisch’s first race ended in a fiery crash at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), the two-time champion offered a candid reminder: setbacks don’t define careers.
Zilisch, one of NASCAR’s most hyped prospects, saw his debut unravel on Lap 1 after colliding with Daniel Suárez. His No. 87 Chevrolet hit the wall and caught fire, forcing a DNF. But Busch, who finished last in his 2004 debut, quickly rallied behind the teenager, blending humor and hard-earned wisdom.
Kyle Busch Draws Parallel Between Zilisch’s COTA Crash and His Own Cup Debut
Busch’s career began with a 41st-place finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2004. Nearly two decades later, he channeled that memory into encouragement for Zilisch. “Your future’s bright, I finished last in my Cup debut too,” Busch posted on X, responding to Zilisch’s post-race disappointment.
Your future’s bright, I finished last in my Cup debut too😅 https://t.co/gpwW9m3Z39
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) March 3, 2025
The rookie, who tweeted, “Man…car was so dang fast too”, now shares an unexpected connection with Busch. In 2004, Busch failed to qualify for three races and had an average finish of 35.16 in six starts. His path changed significantly in 2005 when he won twice as a newcomer.
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Meanwhile, Busch nearly snapped his winless streak at COTA. He led the race during most of the laps before a right rear tire issue relegated him to fifth. His performance, capped by a thrilling battle with Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick, proved he’s still a contender, even as he mentors NASCAR’s next generation.
Connor Zilisch’s COTA Debut Cut Short by Dramatic Fire Incident
Zilisch’s crash unfolded abruptly. Suárez spun mid-track, leaving the rookie nowhere to go. Avoiding contact proved impossible. The collision damaged the left side of Zilisch’s car, sending him into the barrier. Moments later, flames erupted inside his vehicle. He exited safely but shaken, his debut ending abruptly on Lap 1 after a collision with Daniel Suárez.
Zilisch POV: pic.twitter.com/IA5ZqnKTYw
— American Autosport (@americanautospo) March 2, 2025
Pre-race expectations were tempered but hopeful. Trackhouse Racing aimed for a top-15 finish, acknowledging the steep learning curve. “Winning on Sunday would be insane and definitely, greatest moment of my life,” Zilisch told FOX pre-race. “Fingers crossed, but yeah, no expectations for that one.” His lap times early matched front-runners, hinting at untapped potential.
The incident jeopardized Trackhouse’s day; both Zilisch and Suárez were involved, with Zilisch’s car catching fire and Suárez spinning out early. But the team remains bullish on the rookie’s road-course prowess, signaling more starts in 2025.
For Zilisch, the crash is a footnote. From dead-last debutant to 63-time winner, Busch’s career arc offers a blueprint. And if history repeats, this won’t be the last time Zilisch turns heads, even amid the ashes of a tough first outing.
