Parker Kligerman Wins NASCAR Xfinity Race at Daytona in Relief of Connor Zilisch

In a remarkable NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Daytona International Speedway, Parker Kligerman stepped in as a relief driver for Connor Zilisch, who was recovering from a broken collarbone, and led the No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet to victory in the rain-delayed Wawa 250. Despite Kligerman driving the car to the finish and performing the celebratory burnout, the official win was credited to Zilisch, following NASCAR rules that award the starting driver with the result. The race featured multiple weather delays, high-stakes wrecks, and an overtime finish triggered by a 14-car crash, with Kligerman taking control after Zilisch exited under caution on Lap 13. This marked the first time since 2007 that a relief driver won at a national NASCAR level, with Kligerman reflecting on the honor of substituting for a generational talent like Zilisch. The victory also gave JR Motorsports a 1-2-3 finish with Sammy Smith and Justin Allgaier placing second and third. Zilisch emphasized the importance of protecting his health while praising Kligerman's skill and the team's decision to call him in for the relief drive.