At the annual NASCAR Xfinity Series Awards Banquet, JR Motorsports drivers Connor Zilisch and Justin Allgaier were honored for achievements during the 2025 season.
Zilisch, who led the series in victories with 10, was named Rookie of the Year for his performance, which included a run of nine wins in 14 races throughout the summer. His 10th and final win of the year came at the Charlotte Roval in October.
Allgaier might have fallen just short of a repeat NASCAR Xfinity Series championship this season, but he remains the most popular driver in the series. The 39-year-old Illinois native was named the NXS Most Popular Driver award winner for the third straight year and the sixth time in his career, adding to his series-best total.
Overall, Allgaier’s award pushes JR Motorsports’ run of Most Popular Driver Awards in the NXS to 16. Brad Keselowski (2008-09) Chase Elliott (2014-15) and Elliott Sadler (2016-18) also took the honor. Allgaier’s streak began in 2019 and, apart from 2022, when JRM teammate Noah Gragson earned the award, has won it every year since.
The tradition remains intact for team owner Dale Earnhardt Jr., who won it in 1999. He won 15 Most Popular Driver awards in the NASCAR Cup Series during his driving career.