A sudden vacancy
Richard Childress Racing issued a statement on Thursday confirming that Austin Hill will take over the No. 33 Chevrolet for the remainder of the NASCAR Cup Series season. The announcement comes after a somber press conference in which team owner Richard Childress revealed that Kyle Busch had a contract extension in place before his death, underscoring the abrupt nature of the vacancy.
Hill, who already logged his first Cup start after Busch’s passing, will now run a full slate of races while also competing in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, a schedule that demands both stamina and focus.
Double‑duty demands
The team has indicated that Hill will be behind the wheel for more Cup events in 2026 than in any previous season, a testament to the confidence placed in his abilities. Balancing the premier series with the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series will test his adaptability, but the driver appears ready to embrace the challenge.
A future in focus
Beyond the immediate replacement, executives are evaluating Hill as a candidate for a full‑time seat in the lineup, a possibility that could reshape the roster as the organization looks to honor Busch’s legacy while forging its own path.