Austin Hill is chasing a NASCAR title for the fifth consecutive year, but this season carries a heavy emotional weight that sets it apart from the rest. The Georgia native now pilots the Cup car that began 2026 with Kyle Busch, a situation he handles with a mix of professional resolve and private grief.
A Legacy of Loss
History repeated itself when Hill stepped behind the wheel of the No. 8 car following Busch’s unexpected death from sepsis in May. Four days before the Coca-Cola 600, the number was changed to 33, mirroring the way Richard Childress Racing handled the passing of Dale Earnhardt in 2001. Hill immediately reached out to Kevin Harvick, who had filled Earnhardt’s shoes a quarter-century earlier, seeking guidance on how to process the tragedy while maintaining a competitive edge.
“The biggest takeaway that I got from Kevin was just to be mentally tough and not to show your emotion in front of everyone,” Hill said. “If you’re going to have a breakdown moment or anything like that happens, do that behind closed doors.” He explained that his role requires him to be the steady presence in the shop and on the track, proving to his team that he is there for them during a time of immense uncertainty.
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The Challenge of the Cup Car
Since starting his double-duty schedule in late May, Hill has struggled to find consistent speed. His average finish sits at 28.1, with his best result being an 18th-place run at Pocono. Despite the on-track struggles, Hill has leaned on the stability of his O’Reilly Auto Parts Series crew, which includes Andy Street as crew chief and Derek Nealon as his spotter.
He has also worked to build personal relationships with the pit crew, emphasizing that he cares about the people behind the helmet more than the results on the scoreboard. While the team has managed the situation well, Hill notes that they still need a shoulder to lean on from time to time. His perspective on the loss has shifted his personal focus; he says seeing Busch’s wife, Samantha, reminds him to hold his own loved ones tighter and check in on people he might have neglected otherwise.
Looking ahead to a full-time Cup Series schedule in 2027, Hill is focused on mastering the technical difficulties of the highest level of racing. He is still learning how to handle dirty air, a critical factor in overtaking that he admits is difficult to figure out on the fly. As he prepares for the next chapter, Hill remains committed to learning the nuances of the car to improve his performance and honor the legacy he is now a part of.
