During the upcoming Bristol competition, Austin Hill will showcase a tribute honoring Charlie Kirk, as the driver places a memorial decal on his number 21 car. The gesture comes as Hill, competing in the Xfinity Series for Richard Childress Racing, recognizes the late conservative activist, incorporating the phrase
“Austin Hill honors Charlie Kirk Bristol”
into the event following Kirk’s assassination.
Charlie Kirk, recognized as the co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during an appearance at Utah Valley University at the age of 31. The incident took place during an outdoor public debate called Prove Me Wrong, which was part of The American Comeback Tour. As Kirk engaged with the crowd, a single shot from a sniper struck him, causing upheaval at the scene. Authorities quickly began searching for the shooter, eventually apprehending 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, a Utah native, in a short but intense manhunt.
Details of Hill’s Memorial Tribute at Bristol
For the 2025 Bristol race, Hill’s #21 Richard Childress Racing car features a memorial decal specifically dedicated to Charlie Kirk. The decal, which reads “In Memory of Charlie Kirk,” was reported by Steven Taranto and is prominently painted onto the car. This addition serves as a visual homage to Kirk for fans and competitors alike.
“More Charlie Kirk tributes at Bristol: Austin Hill’s car is carrying a ‘In Memory of Charlie Kirk’ memorial decal.”
Hill’s track record further amplifies the significance of his gesture. With top-10 finishes in numerous races, including victories at Martinsville, Talladega, and Atlanta, Hill is seen as a consistent and ambitious competitor. His performance standards, winning three major events and maintaining a strong finishing average, underline the weight of his decision to pay tribute during such a high-profile event.
Danica Patrick’s Salute to Charlie Kirk’s Legacy
Former NASCAR star Danica Patrick also honored Kirk after his assassination, crediting him for her entry into political engagement. Patrick revealed via social media that attending Amfest, an event involving Kirk in December 2023, marked a turning point in her life and inspired her subsequent activism. She expressed her determination to continue speaking at future events and campaigning actively, including efforts for Donald Trump, in the wake of Kirk’s passing.
“ I got into politics because of @charliekirk1776,” Patrick wrote on Instagram. “It truly was my turning point. • Amfest was my first political event December of 2023, with my sister. The backlash I got for attending lit a fire under my ass and I spoke the next year at the same event on top of campaigning for @realdonaldtrump. I will speak again in 2025. • I am not sure what to expect, other than one thing…where Charlie left off, we will continue. With all that we have. 🙏” —Danica Patrick, former NASCAR driver
Patrick’s tribute extends beyond Kirk’s political work, pointing to his role as a source of inspiration for millions, a dedicated family man, and a leader who motivated younger conservatives. Her commitment to continuing his legacy underscores the emotional response and the sense of responsibility shared by those he influenced.
The Wider Impact of the Bristol Memorial
As the motorsport community gathers at Bristol, Hill’s tribute stands as a testament to Charlie Kirk’s influence both on and off the racetrack. The gesture from Hill, alongside the outpouring from public figures like Patrick, highlights the broader cultural and personal resonance of Kirk’s work. With the memorial decal and continued tributes expected, the Bristol race may become a moment for reflection, remembrance, and renewed activism among fans and allies, especially as figures such as Hill, Patrick, and others carry forward Kirk’s legacy in their respective arenas.
