Richard Childress

Richard Reed Childress, born September 21, 1945, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a legendary figure in American motorsports, best known as a former NASCAR driver and highly successful team owner. He established Richard Childress Racing (RCR), one of NASCAR’s most storied and competitive teams, and is renowned for his role in elevating NASCAR through championship-winning partnerships, notably with Dale Earnhardt.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in Winston-Salem, Childress developed a passion for racing from a young age. He spent time at Bowman Gray Stadium selling peanuts and popcorn to support his family, which instilled a strong work ethic. He idolized drivers like Cale Yarborough and David Pearson. Childress bought his first race car, a 1947 Plymouth previously used as a taxi, for $20 at age 17, marking the beginning of his racing journey that started with humble roots.

Career

Childress’s driving career in NASCAR began under unusual circumstances in 1969 when a driver strike at Talladega Superspeedway led NASCAR president Bill France Sr. to seek replacement drivers. By 1971, Childress was racing independently using the number 96, switching to the iconic No. 3 in 1976 as a tribute to Junior Johnson. Though he never won as a driver, he compiled 6 top-five finishes, 76 top-10s, and a career-best points finish of fifth in 1975.

In 1972, Childress founded Richard Childress Racing but fully transitioned away from driving in 1981 to focus on team ownership. The RCR transformed into a powerhouse when Dale Earnhardt joined in 1984. Together, they secured six NASCAR Cup Series championships (1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994) and multiple victories, making RCR one of the sport’s dominant teams. Under Childress’s leadership, RCR became the first team to win championships in NASCAR’s three national series — Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series — accumulating numerous titles and wins across decades. The team also has three Daytona 500 wins (Earnhardt in 1998, Kevin Harvick in 2007, Austin Dillon in 2018). Childress expanded into win-producing ventures in the Busch/Xfinity Series and Truck Series, fostering talent like Kevin Harvick and Austin Dillon, further cementing his legacy.

Off-Track Ventures

Childress established a vineyard in the Yadkin Valley AVA near Lexington in 2004, producing wines under his label. He served on the board of the National Rifle Association until 2019 and is a co-owner of the Professional Bull Riders’ Carolina Cowboys team since 2022. His business interests extend beyond racing into diversified investments.

Net Worth

Richard Childress’s net worth is estimated to be around $250 million.

Personal Life

Details about Childress’s parents are limited, but he experienced early family hardships that shaped his resilience. Richard has been married and has children, including grandchildren Austin and Ty Dillon, both NASCAR drivers carrying on the family racing tradition. The family aspect remains important to Childress, with three generations actively involved in the sport.

Recent Controversies

No significant recent controversies have been documented involving Richard Childress personally. Throughout his career, he has maintained a reputation for integrity and commitment to NASCAR.

Key Highlights from Season 2024 and 2025

While Childress retired from driving decades ago, he remains active in overseeing Richard Childress Racing. In 2024 and into 2025, RCR competes in the NASCAR Cup Series, striving to regain competitive prominence. The team fields drivers such as Austin Dillon and Ty Dillon, continuing the family legacy. Childress’s leadership remains foundational as the team adapts to evolving competition. Specific milestones at the senior leadership level are less publicly detailed; however, RCR’s sustained participation reflects his enduring influence.