Austin Hill is set to return to the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season, the team confirmed on Monday.
Hill, a 16-time winner in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, was named the replacement driver for the late Kyle Busch, who passed away suddenly on May 21. RCR switched from No. 8 to No. 33 out of respect for Busch and his family.
Hill has remained the driver of the No. 33 for the last 13 races, recording two top-20 finishes with a best run of 18th at Pocono.
The 32-year-old is still contending for a NOAPS championship, where he currently ranks seventh in the points standings with two wins.
Austin Hill on returning to RCR: ‘Extremely thankful’
In a statement released by RCR on Monday, Hill expressed his gratitude for the trust the organization has in him. The Georgia native believes he has come a long way in his Cup Series development and looks forward to showing that in 2027.
“I’m extremely thankful to Richard and everyone at RCR for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. 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 said.
Car owner Richard Childress spoke to Hill’s driving ability in the same statement and looks forward to seeing his continuing growth, on and off the track, in 2027.
“Austin Hill is a talented race car driver and his continued growth, work ethic and success across multiple levels of NASCAR competition have positioned him for his next step with RCR. He’s put a tremendous amount of effort into his career, especially this year with everything he’s taken on. We’ve watched Austin grow as a driver and as a person, and we’re proud to have him continue that growth with RCR in the NASCAR Cup Series,” Childress said.
Hill’s announcement leaves questions about Josh Berry
Austin Hill returning to RCR for the 2027 Cup Series season leaves one major question. Josh Berry, who is leaving Wood Brothers Racing after the 2026 season, continues to be without a ride for next year.
The chances of Berry landing a full-time Cup ride for 2027 look almost impossible after the announcement of Hill re-signing with RCR. Jesse Love is set to replace Berry in the No. 21 car next season.
Berry is coming off a season-best finish of third on Sunday at New Hampshire. The Tennessee native paced the field for 73 laps and moved up to 29th in the standings with the performance.
Berry’s third-place run is a continuation of recent momentum. The driver of the No. 21 has secured four straight top 10s and two top fives in the last four races.
Austin Hill Inks 2027 NASCAR Cup Deal With Richard Childress Racing