Bass Pro Shops and Winchester are continuing their long-standing partnership with Richard Childress Racing by remaining key sponsors for Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 during the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series. This renewal highlights the brands’ commitment to supporting motorsports while promoting outdoor heritage and conservation values.
Historic Relationship between Bass Pro Shops, Winchester, and Richard Childress Racing
Bass Pro Shops has been involved with Richard Childress Racing since 1998, originally sponsoring the No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet, a car famously driven by Dale Earnhardt, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion. The connection deepened over the years as Bass Pro Shops supported Austin Dillon, Richard Childress’s grandson, throughout his racing career, including his recent win at Richmond Raceway in August.
The 2025 season solidified this collaboration when Bass Pro Shops partnered with Winchester Ammunition—known as the American Legend—to sponsor Dillon and the iconic No. 3 Chevrolet in multiple Cup Series races. Both brands will continue their roles as primary sponsors during the upcoming 2026 season, maintaining their presence on the Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet throughout the NASCAR Cup Series schedule.
Shared Values in Conservation, Patriotism, and Outdoor Traditions
Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, expressed enthusiasm for sustaining the relationship with Richard Childress and Austin Dillon, emphasizing their dedication to hunting, fishing, and conservation.
“Bass Pro Shops is thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with our friends and passionate outdoorsmen Richard Childress and Austin Dillon,”
Morris said.
“They have been steadfast supporters of hunting, fishing, and conservation in America. We’re proud to work with the Winchester team to salute the sportsmen and women in America and highlight our passion for American patriotism and conservation efforts on the legendary No. 3 RCR car.”
Brett Flaughter, President of Winchester Ammunition, also highlighted the brand’s commitment to heritage and responsibility.
“For more than a century, Winchester has stood as an enduring symbol of American craftsmanship, freedom, and responsibility,”
he said.
“Our legacy is rooted in supporting the shooting sports, responsible hunting, and conservation efforts that protect our nation’s outdoor traditions for future generations, while proudly supplying small-caliber ammunition to the U.S. Military. Our partnership on the No. 3 car reflects our shared commitment to patriotism and conservation. We’re proud to work once again alongside Bass Pro Shops and Richard Childress Racing to promote our rich heritage to race fans.”
Austin Dillon’s Track Record and the Team’s Vision for 2026
The 2026 season will be Austin Dillon’s 13th full competitive year in the NASCAR Cup Series, all spent behind the wheel of the No. 3 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing. Across 444 starts, Dillon has achieved six victories, 24 top-five finishes, 85 in the top ten, and six pole positions, signaling a consistent and dedicated presence in the sport.
Richard Childress, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Richard Childress Racing, praised Johnny Morris for his contributions to conservation and collaboration with the team.
“Johnny Morris is one of the most influential conservation leaders of our time,”
Childress stated.
“Bass Pro Shops has been a valued friend and partner of RCR and Austin for many years, and we are proud to continue to work with them to highlight our shared values. We’re excited also to continue building on the strong foundation that began last year with Winchester. This is a natural pairing rooted in a mutual dedication to conservation efforts and promoting our outdoor heritage for future generations.”
Opening the 2026 Season with a Homecoming Event at Bowman Gray Stadium
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season will launch with the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, an event considered a home race for Austin Dillon and Richard Childress Racing. Scheduled for Sunday, February 1, at 8:00 PM ET, the race will be broadcast on FOX, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, offering fans a chance to see the renewed partnership and iconic No. 3 Chevrolet in action as the season begins.
This partnership renewal between Austin Dillon, Bass Pro Shops, Winchester, and Richard Childress Racing underscores a shared commitment not only to competitive excellence on the track but also to advancing conservation and honoring American outdoor traditions. As the 2026 season unfolds, their aligned values will continue to resonate with racing fans and outdoors enthusiasts alike, strengthening their legacy for future generations.
