Austin Hill is currently juggling two seats in NASCAR’s premier divisions, piloting the O’Reilly Auto Parts‑sponsored entry in the Cup Series while also competing full‑time in the K&N Series for Richard Childress Racing. His recent promotion to the No. 33 car follows the tragic loss of Kyle Busch, whose legacy Hill feels compelled to honor without making the story about himself.
The Weight of a Legacy
Hill has spoken openly about his preference for arriving on time or even late to events, a habit that often leaves him watching driver introductions from the sidelines. He admits that standing around before a session is nothing more than a waste of energy, and he has made it clear that he does not tolerate unnecessary delays.
When asked about the emotional weight of stepping into Busch’s seat, Hill revealed that he sought counsel from veteran driver Kevin Harvick, who offered perspective on handling the inevitable comparisons. The team’s debriefs after a rough outing are blunt but constructive, focusing on improvement rather than assigning blame, and Hill appreciates the straightforward approach.
Balancing a double‑duty schedule with family responsibilities has taken a toll on his diet and recovery, but Hill says the support of his wife and children keeps him grounded. He admires Brexton Busch for navigating the same grief at a young age, and he looks up to Michael McDowell, who manages a large household while staying competitive on track. He and Sheldon Creed can now laugh about a past incident that was not funny at the time, a reminder of how quickly camaraderie can emerge after shared hardship.
A lifelong fan of Jeff Gordon, Hill has expressed a whimsical desire to own one of Gordon’s iconic rainbow helmets, a tribute that would sit alongside his own racing ambitions. He is also weighing a full‑time move to the Cup Series, waiting for the right opportunity to align with his goals and the evolving landscape of the sport.