Connor Zilisch’s dream season unraveled in gut-wrenching fashion under the desert lights at Phoenix Raceway. The 19-year-old phenom had a phenomenal season, but the final race didn’t feel like him. He drove high in the top 5 for most of the race, but just couldn’t dominate the same way. While battling his friend and rival Jesse Love, ultimately, a late caution sealed the script for him.

Restarting side-by-side, the two young stars waged an electrifying duel before Love finally muscled ahead with 24 laps left. Zilisch fought back furiously, sending sparks flying as he chased Love’s spoiler through the final laps. But the dirty air and fading tires betrayed him. When the checkered flag waved, Love claimed the championship, while Zilisch crossed the line a heartbroken third. But the bad news

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