Austin Hill will take part in five NASCAR Cup Series races in 2026, marking a significant step in his racing career as he strengthens his presence in the sport’s top tier alongside Richard Childress Racing (RCR). Hill will drive the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet, with his debut set for the Straight Talk Wireless 500 at Phoenix Raceway on March 8, a race set to air live on FOX Sports 1 at 3:30 p.m. ET, marking a high-profile start to his Cup Series campaign. The focus keyword, Austin Hill NASCAR Cup Series, underscores both his ascent in stock car racing and the enduring partnership backing his efforts.
Partnership Powers Hill’s Progression in the Cup Series
United Rentals, the world‘s leading equipment rental company, has extended its partnership with RCR to support Hill’s 2026 endeavor in the NASCAR Cup Series. Hill has shared a lengthy and successful association with United Rentals, who have sponsored him for nearly a decade, both on and off the track, adding stability and high visibility to his career.
“United Rentals continues to be a special part of my career and carrying their colors once again in the Cup Series means a lot,”
said Hill.
“I’ve represented their company for almost a decade now and it never gets old winning races and having success together. The No. 33 team was able to get our first top-10 last season in Chicago, and I genuinely felt like we had a shot to win the fall race at Talladega. Racing on Sundays full time is the end goal, so expanding the track lineup will be a good challenge to gain experience. Grateful to Richard, every man and woman at RCR, ECR, and CT Spring, and of course United Rentals for the opportunity.”
– Austin Hill, Driver
United Rentals and RCR: A Foundation of Success
As the largest rental company globally, United Rentals operates over 1,600 rental locations across North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut. Their partnership with RCR began five years ago, while their relationship with Hill dates back nine seasons—an alliance that has brought consistent achievements, highlighted by Hill’s victory at the United Rentals 300 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Daytona International Speedway that opened the 2026 season.
“We value the strong partnership we’ve built with Austin Hill and Richard Childress Racing and are excited to continue that momentum into the 2026 Cup Series season. Together, we’re focused on delivering results and showcasing the skill and teamwork that drives NASCAR success. It’s shaping up to be a great year, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
– Craig Schmidt, Senior Vice President of Sales – National Accounts, United Rentals
RCR Leadership Commends the Ongoing Collaboration
RCR’s leadership emphasized the benefits of their ongoing collaboration with both United Rentals and Hill. Over the past five years, the partnership has expanded through robust branding, at-track initiatives, and corporate hosting programs, each contributing to Hill’s development and RCR’s continued relevance in NASCAR’s challenging environment.
“Everyone at RCR is proud of our long-standing partnership with United Rentals and looking forward to building on the strong branding, at-track activation and hosting programs we have developed together over the last five years. United Rentals has been instrumental in Austin Hill’s continued rise and success, and together we’re looking forward to watching him in the NASCAR Cup Series for select races in 2026.”
– Mike Verlander, President, Richard Childress Racing
Hill’s Journey: From Series Champion to Cup Contender
Hill, the 2023 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Regular Season Champion, is in his fifth full-time season driving the No. 21 Chevrolet within the same organization. He made his NASCAR Cup Series debut at Michigan International Speedway in 2022 and has since completed 15 Cup starts, with a best finish of ninth at the Chicago Street Race in 2025. His step up to additional Cup Series races in 2026 reflects both individual progress and the trust RCR and partners place in his abilities.
RCR, founded in 1969, is famed for over 200 victories and 17 championships, including six Cup Series crowns with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR’s current Cup Series lineup features icons like Kyle Busch and Austin Dillon, while Hill and Jesse Love represent the next generation in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
What This Means for Hill, RCR, and NASCAR Fans
Austin Hill’s expanded Cup Series schedule signals a pivotal opportunity for him to gain vital experience and for United Rentals to increase its visibility within the sport. For RCR, building on decades of success, the collaboration reinforces their ability to nurture rising talents alongside seasoned champions. NASCAR enthusiasts and those following Hill’s progress will be watching to see how this combination translates to results on track, particularly as he targets even bigger achievements moving forward.
