Parker Kligerman stepped into Daytona with unfinished business and left with a milestone moment. Filling in mid-race for Connor Zilisch, he delivered a flawless drive that rewrote the record books. His win marked the first relief-driver victory in the Xfinity Series since Denny Hamlin in 2007. And when the dust settled, Kligerman opened up in a way that made the moment even more unforgettable.

Kligerman’s recent victory at Daytona was a powerful moment of redemption, especially considering the heartbreak he experienced earlier this year. In February 2025, Kligerman initially won the Daytona NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season opener but was disqualified after his truck failed post-race inspection due to being too low in the rear, stripping him of the win and awarding it to Corey Heim instead. This time, though, it was a clean win, no drama, no setbacks, and Kligerman had plenty to say afterward.

Parker Kligerman’s iconic Daytona victory

Speaking after his win in the post-race interview, Kligerman shared how the opportunity came together unexpectedly. “It’s different in every way because I didn’t expect to call from Dale Jr. on a day I was leaving to go on vacation”, adding, “Obviously hate the circumstances for Connor he’s an amazing, generational talent.”

He revealed that Dale Earnhardt Jr. had called him while he was preparing to leave for vacation, asking him to step in for Connor Zilisch. “I feel honored to have gotten the call and to grace the seat that he’s been in and that Kyle Larson’s been in. I knew I had to hold my end of the bargain.”

His return to Daytona, stepping in as a relief driver for Connor Zilisch in the Xfinity Series, resulted in a hard-fought and celebrated victory, the first Xfinity win credited to Zilisch but crossed the finish line by Kligerman himself.

This win provided an emotional and career-affirming turnaround from the earlier Truck Series setback, making it a standout moment in NASCAR’s 2025 season and serving as a vivid reminder of the unpredictable nature of motorsport and the sheer determination required to stay at the front.

With a mix of talent, grit, and a sharp racing mind, Kligerman continues to inspire fans and peers alike, proving that in racing, as in life, perseverance often leads to redemption at the most meaningful moments.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reveals why he opted for Parker Kligerman

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and JR Motorsports made the strategic decision to have Kligerman stand in for Zilisch, a choice rooted both in practical considerations and long-standing relationships. As Earnhardt Jr. explained, Kligerman was close in size to Zilisch, making the driver change smoother, and his prior near-win in the Truck Series at Daytona earlier that year showed he was ready for the challenge.

Zilisch was allowed to start the race and officially be credited with the win under NASCAR rules, but it was Kligerman who took over during the early caution caused by wet weather and drove a flawless race from that point forward. Earnhardt Jr. highlighted the importance of protecting young talent like Zilisch for the long haul, noting the team’s priority was not to risk Zilisch’s future career by forcing him to stay in the car any longer than necessary.

Kligerman, known for balancing a part-time racing schedule with media work, embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm but also gratitude for the trust placed in him. “Well, they’re about the same size, trying to get somebody in and out of the car and get them in there comfortably is important, and Parker all but won the Truck race here earlier this year,” Earnhardt said.

The relief drive victory carried a sense of revival and validation, amplified by his connection to the team and respect for his teammate. Dale Earnhardt Jr. also added, “And so we have a working relationship that you’re well aware of. He’s a great guy, a good friend. And I felt that he would be excited to do it, and really there’s not too much else thought put into it.”

This moment also reinforced Kligerman’s reputation as a reliable and skilled driver who can step up when called upon, bridging the gap between his part-time driving role and the high stakes of full-time competition.