The move represents another milestone in RCR’s ongoing commitment to developing talent and providing drivers with a path to NASCAR’s highest level
WELCOME, NC (August 24, 2026) – Richard Childress Racing announced today that Austin Hill will take the next step in his racing career in 2027, driving the organization’s No. 33 Chevrolet full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Hill’s move to the Cup Series marks the latest chapter in a career that has been built on hard work and raw talent. It also continues a long-standing RCR tradition of developing drivers and preparing them for NASCAR’s top level.
“I’m extremely thankful to Richard and everyone at RCR for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” said Hill. “Every race car driver dreams of competing full time in the NASCAR Cup Series, and to have that opportunity with RCR is something I don’t take for granted. I’ve learned so much this year about what it takes to compete at this level, and I’m excited to take everything I’ve learned during my time at RCR and apply it to this next chapter. I want to do everything I can to help this organization continue moving forward. I’m excited for what’s ahead and ready to get to work.”
For more than 50 years, RCR has played an important role in developing some of the sport’s most accomplished drivers, providing an opportunity to grow, compete and establish themselves at the highest level of NASCAR. Kevin Harvick, Clint Bowyer, Austin Dillon and Tyler Reddick are just a few examples of NASCAR Cup Series winners who advanced in their careers under RCR development programs.
Hill has made the most of his opportunities at RCR, establishing himself as one of the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series’ most consistent and accomplished drivers. In five seasons behind the wheel of the No. 21 Chevrolet, he has qualified for the Chase every year, earned a Championship 4 berth in 2024, won the 2023 regular season championship and collected 16 series victories.
Hill has also excelled on drafting-style tracks, where his 11 victories have surpassed the previous record of eight held by NASCAR Hall of Famers Dale Earnhardt and Tony Stewart.
The Georgia native has continued to push himself while balancing a demanding double-duty schedule in 2026, gaining valuable experience and continuing to develop as a driver across multiple levels of NASCAR competition. Notably, Hill has shown poise while taking on a tough role for RCR during one of the most trying times in the race team’s history following the tragic passing of Kyle Busch in May.
“Austin Hill is a talented race car driver and his continued growth, work ethic and success across multiple levels of NASCAR competition have positioned him for his next step with RCR,” said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “He’s put a tremendous amount of effort into his career, especially this year with everything he’s taken on. We’ve watched Austin grow as a driver and as a person, and we’re proud to have him continue that growth with RCR in the NASCAR Cup Series.”
Away from the racetrack, Hill is a devoted family man who enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. His willingness to work, learn and continually challenge himself has been a defining part of his career.
Hill will begin his full-time NASCAR Cup Series campaign with RCR in 2027, bringing with him the experience he has gained throughout his career and the momentum of his successful run with the organization.
For more information, please visit rcrracing.com.
Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 17 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018).
