Austin Dillon believes that increasing the number of Xfinity Series races allowed for NASCAR Cup Series drivers from five to ten each year would attract more sponsors. Speaking in 2024 during an interview on SiriusXM <a href="https://www.big14news.com/nascar/”>NASCAR Radio, Dillon emphasized how this adjustment could benefit both drivers and their backers.
How Expanding Race Participation Could Enhance Sponsor Interest
Currently, NASCAR Cup drivers such as Austin Dillon and his Richard Childress Racing teammate Kyle Busch can compete in only five Xfinity Series events annually. Dillon argued that raising this cap to ten races would make sponsorship deals more attractive. He suggested that sponsoring a driver running twice as many races provides greater exposure and value, potentially encouraging more partners to invest.
Dillon elaborated on this proposal during his SiriusXM appearance, saying,
“I know it’s very interesting from the CW standpoint,”
Austin Dillon explained.
“Their ratings have been very good, and more and more partners would probably be interested if we can get a 5-10 race schedule out there for Cup guys.”
—Austin Dillon, NASCAR driver
He added,
“It would be easier to sell a sponsor on 10 races than 5, maybe, and you can pair them together, and that makes more sense. If you get 10 and 10…you could put together 20 between myself and Kyle Busch. I know Kyle would be all about it,”
he added.
This collaboration idea highlights the potential for expanded sponsor visibility across a shared schedule between teammates.
Austin Dillon’s Recent Return to the Xfinity Series
Dillon last competed in an Xfinity race earlier in 2024 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, marking his first start in that series since 2023. Initially, he was not planning additional Xfinity events for the 2025 season. However, unforeseen circumstances changed his schedule, as Richard Childress Racing placed him in the No. 21 Chevy at Iowa Speedway. This move followed the suspension of Austin Hill, the original driver, who was penalized for contact with Aric Almirola during a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Insights Into Richard Childress Racing Leadership and Future Prospects
Richard Childress Racing, a team founded in 1969, has long been guided by its namesake owner Richard Childress. His leadership helped the team secure six championships, but with Childress approaching his 80th birthday, speculation about the next generation’s involvement has intensified. Austin Dillon has expressed interest in eventually taking over the team’s leadership.
Discussing this possibility with Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the Dale Jr. Download, Dillon shared,
“Definitely, I hope that and it’s a dream of mine. I’ve come across the railroad tracks here in Welcome for my entire life. It’s really all I know.”
—Austin Dillon, NASCAR driver
He also mentioned his grandfather’s personal sacrifices, noting,
“I think what my grandfather’s biggest fear or regret is his time with family. He has been so committed to RCR and the business. That is what he has put all his focus and effort in, and we love him for that,”
he added.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 NASCAR Playoffs at Darlington Raceway
As Dillon prepares for the upcoming race at Darlington Raceway, anticipation is high since this event will kick off the 2025 NASCAR playoffs. Fans eager to follow the competition can watch live on USA Network on Sunday, August 31, at 6 p.m. ET or listen via radio broadcasts on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Dillon’s focus remains sharp as the playoff race approaches, with the possibility of further changes to his racing schedule and sponsorship opportunities in sight.
