Austin Hill will pilot the Cup Series No. 33 for Richard Childress Racing next season, stepping into the void left by the late Kyle Busch.
Decision Rooted in Loyalty
Hill, 32, has been with RCR since 2022, capturing Daytona and 15 additional victories. He said he had wanted a Cup seat for years, but only if it matched his standards and the right team. “I didn’t want just any Cup car,” Hill remarked at Daytona, stressing the importance of choosing an organization that fit him.
Reflecting on a Tough Transition
Hill contemplated the impact of Busch’s death, noting uncertainty about Busch’s future role. Speculation about Busch’s 2027 plans lingered, yet Hill paced himself without rushing. “I felt loyal to RCR for five years,” he explained, acknowledging that if the team had taken another direction, he could have stayed with the No. 21 O’Reilly Series car.
Learning from Kevin Harvick’s Experience
To guide him through this sensitive change, Hill consulted Kevin Harvick, who had faced a similar tragedy at RCR in 2001 after Dale Earnhardt’s death. Harvick taught Hill to keep emotions private and focus on mental resilience, emphasizing toughness on track and in the shop.
Prepping for Dual Series Wins
Hill sees the upcoming weekend as a chance to secure victories in both series. “Daytona has favored us,” he said, noting the Fortune of unanticipated wins. He targets a Summer Daytona triumph, a milestone he’s sought recently.
Charge into Saturday Night Cup Racing
Hill believes the Saturday night Cup race offers a strong shot for a win, citing RCR’s storied speedway performance in both Cup and O’Reilly Series history. He’s determined to capture his first Cup victory while pushing for a top-five finish in the O’Reilly Series.
Hill’s path to the Cup is underpinned by steady preparation and leadership lessons learned from seasoned drivers, setting the stage for a season defined by readiness and disciplined ambition.
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