Austin Cindric, in his fifth season of the NASCAR Cup Series, has shown steady growth with three victories and 27 top-10 finishes over 142 starts. Continuing his momentum, he secured a playoff spot for the second consecutive year by winning at Talladega. Entering the race at Gateway on Sunday, Cindric arrives as the defending winner, underscoring his rising profile in the sport.
Over four full-time years, Cindric reached the playoffs three times, finishing 12th in his rookie season and 11th last year. This year, however, both he and his crew chief, Brian Wilson, are aiming higher: a serious bid for the championship.
The Strength of a Reunited Driver and Crew Chief Partnership
Cindric’s collaboration with Brian Wilson stretches back to his teenage years, a relationship that produced the 2020 Xfinity Series championship. Although they separated for a period — Wilson working with Wood Brothers Racing and Harrison Burton while Cindric paired with Jeremy Bullins on the No. 2 Ford — their reunion with Team Penske late in 2023 has reinvigorated the team.
Now reunited, both driver and crew chief see their connection as stronger than ever, preparing them for a deep playoff run. Wilson clearly laid out their goal:
“We’ve been scoring more stage points. We’ve been qualifying better. If we can take another step like that, that’d be incredible, and I think if we do, we can possibly contend for the championship.”
—Brian Wilson, Crew Chief
Cindric acknowledges the challenge ahead and the progress they’ve made.
“I’ve been super-close to making it into the Round of 8. Obviously, that is the next step.”
He adds,
“I don’t think we’re in any better or worse position than I’ve been in before, just from a numbers standpoint and how we’ve run throughout the year. It’s definitely my best season to date…”
His ambitions are clear:
“But as far as what would be best to come out of all of it, I think making a Championship 4 in the Cup Series is a huge deal. It would be one of my biggest accomplishments; I think it rivals the Daytona 500.”
—Austin Cindric, Driver
Open Communication Builds a Solid Foundation
What distinguishes the Cindric-Wilson duo is more than just history; it’s a transparent working relationship grounded in honesty. Their willingness to hold candid discussions privately, without airing frustrations publicly, has reinforced their bond.
Wilson recalls early in Cindric’s career when the young driver was visibly frustrated after a race. He intervened with firm advice:
“No, come on. We’re not going to let our competitors see any weakness or frustration.”
Wilson said,
“If you want to do it, we’ll do it in the lounge. I don’t mind having those conversations, but you don’t show it publicly. He was probably 16 or 17 years old then.”
—Brian Wilson, Crew Chief
Since then, their communication has remained open and truthful, paving a path through both successes and setbacks. Cindric appreciates the comfort of working with someone who understands him well and has confidence in his abilities. This trust has been crucial in maintaining resolve when victories are harder to come by than during their time in the Xfinity Series.
Team Penske’s Championship Aspirations
With Cindric’s Penske teammates Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano both already crowned Cup champions, the pressure and motivation to complete a championship sweep is compelling. Wilson notes the significance of their 100th race together, spotting key similarities and affirming confidence in the foundation they have built. He believes the team’s continued development and implementation will be critical as the season progresses.
Cindric describes himself as still impatient at times but credits Wilson with helping him manage that and giving him enough trust without micromanaging. This balance has allowed Cindric to grow as a driver while fostering a strong team dynamic.
Looking Ahead: The Road Toward NASCAR Glory
The partnership between Austin Cindric and Brian Wilson embodies a measured but urgent push toward NASCAR’s pinnacle. Their shared history, reinforced by hard conversations behind the scenes and a genuine understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, fuels their quest for success. While Cindric has made steady progress in the Cup Series playoffs, his eyes remain fixed on breaking into the Championship 4.
The stakes are high as they head into the postseason, with teammates already setting the championship standard. If Cindric and Wilson sustain their upward trajectory, marked by improved qualifying and stage racing, they have a real chance to deliver Team Penske another title and solidify Cindric’s place among NASCAR’s elite.
