Austin Hill will drive the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet for the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, stepping into the seat left vacant after the tragic loss of Kyle Busch.
Honoring a Legend
Busch died on May 21 from complications of pneumonia that progressed into sepsis, a sudden turn that shocked the racing community and left a void at the wheel of the iconic No. 33 car.
The team elected to retain the No. 33 designation as a tribute to Busch, while reserving the No. 8 for his young son Brexton, a gesture that underscores the personal connections that run deep within the sport.
Richard Childress, the veteran team owner, spoke movingly about Busch’s impact, highlighting the driver’s contributions both on and off the track and the lasting legacy he leaves within the organization.
Hill, 32, is no stranger to the Cup Series, having made occasional starts in a part‑time RCR entry over the past three seasons, and he earned a pair of 27th‑place finishes in his first two appearances with the team.
Originally, the plan had been to announce Busch’s return for the 2027 season, but the circumstances forced a rapid reassignment, prompting Childress to commend the team’s resilience and the driver’s professionalism in a moment of grief.
The partnership with Chevrolet, supported by sponsors such as O’Reilly Auto Parts, continues to provide the resources needed for Hill to compete at the highest level, while the No. 33 car number remains a symbol of honor and continuity.