Connor Zilisch Brings Momentum to Dover as Chase Race Tightens

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Updated: 4:09 PM CDT May 12, 2026

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By Kansas City's Own® KCWE

There are now just 11 races remaining before the chase begins in The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, and this weekend’s stop at Dover Motor Speedway could play a major role in shaping the postseason picture.

Connor Zilisch arrives at the Monster Mile after another dramatic performance at Watkins Glen. Zilisch made a bold final-lap move and raced Jesse Love to the line for the victory, collecting his third straight win at the New York road course and continuing one of the strongest stretches in the series this season.

The last time the series visited Dover, Zilisch also found victory lane. His win at the concrete oval added to a breakout summer run that helped establish him as one of the top young drivers in the garage.

Now the focus shifts to one of NASCAR’s toughest tracks. Dover’s high banks, punishing concrete surface, and long green-flag runs regularly test drivers physically and mentally, while “Miles the Monster” has earned a reputation for ending strong days in a hurry.

For Dr. Patrick Staropoli and Big Machine Racing, Dover may provide a needed reset after a frustrating outing at Watkins Glen. Staropoli’s race ended just four laps into the event after an engine failure sidelined the No. 48 Chevrolet, resulting in the first last-place finish of his NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series career.

The team now looks to quickly move past that disappointment and regroup at a track where surviving the long runs and avoiding mistakes can create opportunities to climb forward throughout the afternoon.

BMR is a promotional partner with KCWE this season.

Live coverage begins Saturday at 2:30 p.m. on Kansas City’s Own® KCWE and The CW.