Richard Childress Racing has announced a major restructuring of its leadership team, introducing new roles designed to enhance its NASCAR Cup Series prospects starting in the 2026 season. These Richard Childress Racing leadership changes target improved performance and clearer competition oversight as the organization seeks renewed success on the track.
Organization Streamlines Command for Competitive Edge
The leadership adjustments, first detailed by NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass, are intended to create a more defined hierarchy focused on competition. The centerpiece of the changes is the elevation of Mike Dillon to Chief Operating Officer, an appointment that underscores the team’s intent to put competitive excellence at the core of its operations. As Pockrass noted,
“Mike Dillon named RCR COO with a focus on competition. John Klausmeier is technical director and all competition departments report to Klausmeier, while Klausmeier reports to Dillon. Andy Street named performance director to focus on R&D and on-track results,”
– Bob Pockrass, NASCAR reporter.
Mike Dillon brings decades of experience and a track record of leadership within Richard Childress Racing, having previously served as vice president of competition, director of team operations, as well as driver and spotter. Dillon also played a central role in establishing the team’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series program in the late 1990s and has long influenced RCR’s driver development strategy.
Expanded Technical and Performance Responsibilities
John Klausmeier will assume the role of Technical Director, now charged with overseeing all engineering and technical efforts across RCR. His responsibilities include advancing vehicle systems engineering, overseeing design, and managing metrology. The decision to place Klausmeier at the helm of technical departments reflects a broader organizational push to deepen engineering capabilities, ensuring RCR is prepared for the sport’s evolving demands. Team owner and CEO Richard Childress commented,
“Mike Dillon has already began assembling top talent for RCR and has a track record of success when working with the competition side of our race team. Similarly, John Klausmeier continues to elevate our competition program.”
– Richard Childress, CEO.
In a further bid to translate technical developments into measurable racing results, Andy Street has been selected as Performance Director. Street will coordinate the company’s research and development activities and will focus on enhancing on-track outcomes across all racing operations. According to Childress,
“Andy Street stepped up for us this year and will be a great asset for RCR as we focus on increasing performance across the company.”
– Richard Childress, CEO.
In addition to his executive role, Andy Street will serve as crew chief for RCR’s part-time No. 33 Chevrolet entry in the Cup Series for 2026. This dual position integrates his technical oversight with hands-on race-day involvement, illustrating the team’s aim for seamless performance enhancement.
New Structure Poised for Results
The restructuring brings all competition departments under the direction of Klausmeier, who reports directly to Dillon, establishing a more unified and efficient decision-making process. This move is expected to increase accountability, maximize the strengths of each leader, and accelerate the implementation of new strategies throughout the organization.
With these strategic appointments spanning operations, technical development, and performance, Richard Childress Racing has positioned itself for a revitalized pursuit of victories in the NASCAR Cup Series. The organization is set to enter the 2026 season with a leadership team structured to deliver both innovative engineering and competitive results.
Mike Dillon named RCR COO with a focus on competition. John Klausmeier is technical director and all competition departments report to Klausmeier, while Klausmeier reports to Dillon. Andy Street named performance director to focus on R&D and on-track results. https://t.co/z2ksEPZPvV
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 14, 2026
