RCR Extends Contracts with Austin Hill and Anchor Racing

WELCOME, N.C. (January 9, 2026) - In a significant announcement for NASCAR fans, Richard Childress Racing (RCR) confirmed today a multi-year extension with both driver Austin Hill and primary sponsor Anchor Racing, solidifying a promising partnership well into the future. The news, released this morning, underscores RCR's commitment to building a competitive team around rising stars and stable sponsorship.
Austin Hill first joined RCR in 2023, immediately making a splash in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His inaugural season proved nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a championship victory. Hill's performance was punctuated by a remarkable seven wins, 17 top-five finishes, and an impressive 23 top-10 finishes - statistics that quickly established him as a driver to watch. This success wasn't merely about speed; Hill demonstrably connected with fans and proved a valuable asset to the RCR organization.
Anchor Racing, under the leadership of Bill Denahy, entered the NASCAR scene as a primary sponsor for Hill in 2024. Their investment quickly blossomed into a fruitful relationship, extending beyond mere financial support. Anchor Racing's commitment has been integral to RCR's success, fostering a strong team dynamic that extends both on and off the racetrack. The partnership's growth highlights the increasing importance of synergistic relationships between drivers, teams, and sponsors in modern NASCAR.
"We are excited to continue our partnership with Austin and Anchor Racing," stated Richard Childress, owner of RCR. "Austin is a talented driver who has already achieved great things with RCR. We look forward to building on that success in the years to come." Childress's comments emphasize the team's belief in Hill's potential and their desire to nurture a long-term winning program. The stability provided by this multi-year extension will undoubtedly allow Hill and the team to focus on performance without the distraction of contract negotiations.
Echoing Childress's enthusiasm, Hill expressed his gratitude and excitement about the future. "I'm thrilled to be continuing my career with RCR and Anchor Racing," Hill said. "Richard has given me a great opportunity, and I'm confident that we can continue to win races and championships together. I'm also grateful for the support of Anchor Racing. Bill and his team are committed to success, and I'm proud to represent them on and off the track." Hill's statement reveals a clear sense of loyalty and a strong belief in the direction of the team.
This extension is particularly noteworthy in the current NASCAR landscape, where driver and sponsor movement are commonplace. Securing Hill and Anchor Racing for the long term provides RCR with a crucial foundation for sustained success. It allows the team to strategically plan for the future, develop talent within the organization, and potentially attract further sponsorship opportunities.
Analysts predict this deal will make RCR a formidable contender in the upcoming seasons. The continuity of having a proven driver like Hill paired with a dedicated sponsor like Anchor Racing offers a distinct advantage in a sport where consistency is key. The combination of a veteran team owner in Richard Childress, a rising star driver in Austin Hill, and a committed sponsor in Anchor Racing positions them well to compete for championships in the years ahead.
The ripple effects of this announcement are already being felt within the NASCAR community, with many speculating on how RCR's strengthened position will impact the competitive balance of the series. It's clear that Richard Childress Racing is making a bold statement of intent, signaling their commitment to remaining a top team in NASCAR for years to come.
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[ https://www.si.com/onsi/racing-america/news/austin-hill-anchor-partner-return-to-rcr-in-2026 ]