Richard Childress Racing has announced that it will keep the search for its second full-time Cup Series driver in the building.
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The team has stated that Austin Hill will move up to the top level of NASCAR in 2027 while driving the No. 33 Chevrolet. Hill has controlled this re-numbered entry since Kyle Busch's sudden passing on May 21, and he will remain in it for the foreseeable future.
"I'm extremely thankful to Richard and everyone at RCR for believing in me and giving me this opportunity," said Hill in a press release. "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."
Hill, a Georgia native, has been a member of the Richard Childress Racing lineup since the 2022 season when he moved from Hattori Racing Enterprises in the Truck Series to the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.
He has driven the No. 21 full-time in the secondary series for five seasons while winning 16 races. Eleven of these wins have come on drafting tracks.
Hill also made his Cup Series debut during the 2022 season as he drove the No. 33 at Michigan International Speedway. He has made 30 starts — partially due to a set schedule and partially due to tragedy — while posting a top-10 finish on the streets of Chicago.
Hill will continue to pull double duty in Cup and O'Reilly as the 2026 NASCAR season continues. Once 2027 begins, he will move up to the No. 33 on a full-time basis while seeking his first career Cup Series win.
