Austin Hill will take on a select schedule in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series, steering the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing (RCR). United Rentals is elevating its ongoing alliance with RCR, targeting key races as Hill expands his presence in the top tier, with Austin Hill NASCAR Cup Series action set to begin at Phoenix Raceway on March 8, 2026.
United Rentals Increases Commitment with RCR and Hill
United Rentals, recognized as a global leader in equipment rentals, has deepened its support for both the RCR team and Hill, marking a new chapter in their multi-year collaboration for the upcoming Cup Series season. Hill will launch his 2026 part-time Cup campaign at the Straight Talk Wireless 500 in Phoenix, with fans able to tune in on FOX Sports 1 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Years of Teamwork Reach New Heights
This year represents notable anniversaries for all involved, with United Rentals and RCR celebrating five seasons together and United Rentals backing Hill for a total of nine years. The partnership proved its strength earlier in 2026, as Hill claimed victory in the United Rentals 300 at Daytona International Speedway, driving the iconic blue and white car to the winner’s circle.
“United Rentals continues to be a special part of my career,”
said Hill.
“I’ve represented their company for almost a decade now. Racing on Sundays full-time is the end goal, so expanding the track lineup will be a good challenge to gain experience.”
– Austin Hill, Driver
Building Momentum in the Cup Series
Though best known for his achievements in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series—where he previously earned the Regular Season Champion title—Hill’s ambitions in the Cup Series are growing with every start. The No. 33 RCR team has shown remarkable progress, highlighted by a top-10 run at the Chicago street course last year and a strong performance that nearly secured a victory at Talladega. These milestones indicate that Hill and his team are emerging as genuine contenders in the highly competitive field.
Strategic Partnerships Strengthen RCR’s Bid
United Rentals operates over 1,600 rental locations throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, bringing an expansive reach to the motorsport partnership. For RCR, the relationship with United Rentals extends beyond branding, with a comprehensive on-site strategy designed to drive engagement and showcase collaboration at every event.
“United Rentals has been instrumental in Austin Hill’s continued rise and success,”
said Mike Verlander, president of RCR.
“Together we’re looking forward to watching him in the NASCAR Cup Series for select races in 2026.”
– Mike Verlander, RCR President
Craig Schmidt, Senior Vice President of Sales at United Rentals, also emphasized their shared vision by stating the partnership aims at
“showcasing the skill and teamwork that drives NASCAR success.”
– Craig Schmidt, Senior Vice President of Sales, United Rentals
Looking Ahead: Hill’s Cup Series Future
As Hill continues his fifth full-time season in the No. 21 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Chevrolet, his Cup Series starts in the United Rentals-backed No. 33 will provide valuable experience, sharpening his edge for future full-time opportunities. The strategic alignment between Hill, RCR, and United Rentals positions him as a rising force, while their combined expertise and national presence signal a broader, lasting impact on the racing landscape.
With support from notable industry figures like Mike Verlander and Craig Schmidt and track records at venues such as Atlanta, Talladega, and Daytona International Speedway, Hill’s part-time Cup Series campaign in 2026 stands as a critical step toward his ultimate objective—securing a full-time seat at NASCAR’s highest level.
