Overtime Heroics: Kyle Larson Fills In and Wins in Thrilling Xfinity Series Finish
Subbing for Connor Zilisch, Larson Claims Second Xfinity Win of the Season
[City], [Date] – Kyle Larson once again proved why he’s considered one of the most versatile and dynamic drivers in NASCAR. Filling in for the young rising star Connor Zilisch, Larson powered his way to the front during a dramatic NASCAR Overtime finish to secure his second Xfinity Series win of the season.
Driving the No. 17 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports in place of Zilisch—who was sidelined due to a scheduling conflict—Larson delivered a masterclass in clutch performance. After running inside the top five for much of the race, he pounced during the final restart, muscling past leaders and surviving a chaotic two-lap sprint to the checkered flag.
“What a finish,” Larson said in Victory Lane, still catching his breath. “I wasn’t even supposed to be in this car, but I’m glad I could step in and help the team. Connor’s been doing a great job all season, and I just wanted to keep that momentum going. To walk away with a win—it’s just awesome.”
The victory adds to Larson’s already impressive 2025 campaign across multiple NASCAR series. Known for his willingness to jump into nearly any race car, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion once again showcased his adaptability and poise under pressure. Saturday’s win is his 17th career Xfinity Series victory and his second of the season, the first coming earlier at Las Vegas.
The race featured several cautions and wild moments, but Larson stayed cool through the chaos. His final restart was textbook precision: launching hard off Turn 2, using the outside line to gain momentum, and sliding in front of the competition just as the white flag waved.
Crew chief Kevin Meendering credited Larson’s experience and instincts in the high-pressure moment. “Kyle knows how to win these races. He read the field perfectly and got the job done when it counted most,” Meendering said. “Connor has been strong all year, and we’re thankful to have a guy like Kyle who can jump in and perform at that level when needed.”
The victory also keeps Hendrick Motorsports in the spotlight, continuing a strong Xfinity Series campaign where the No. 17 entry—shared by multiple drivers—has consistently run up front. Zilisch, just 17 years old, has already made waves this season, and Larson’s win further validates the strength of the car and team behind it.
For Larson, the win is another example of why he’s one of NASCAR’s most reliable closers. Whether it’s a Cup car, Xfinity ride, or a dirt sprint machine, he finds a way to compete—and win.
“Anytime I’m behind the wheel, I’m trying to make the most of it,” Larson said. “This one’s for the team, for Connor, and all the fans who stuck around through the wild finish.”
With the crowd on its feet and sparks flying under the lights, Kyle Larson once again reminded the motorsports world: when the moment matters most, he’s always a threat to take the checkered flag.
