Austin Hill is rejoining the NASCAR Cup Series for a handful of races in 2026, driving the No. 33 Chevrolet Camaro. Continuing his partnership with United Rentals and Richard Childress Racing (RCR), Hill will kick off his season at Phoenix Raceway as part of a limited schedule.
Details About Hill’s 2026 Schedule and Sponsorship
Richard Childress Racing officially announced Hill’s return on Wednesday, confirming United Rentals as the primary sponsor for his No. 33 car. While the full list of events in Hill’s schedule has not been disclosed, RCR and Hill confirmed five starts for the driver, beginning with the race in Phoenix.
Austin Hill will have five Cup Series starts with United Rentals as his sponsor, starting with Phoenix Raceway. pic.twitter.com/PYE5xKqepw
?John Newby, Reporter
Hill Reflects on His Ongoing Relationship with United Rentals
Speaking about his partnership, Hill expressed his gratitude for the extended relationship with United Rentals, which has been part of his racing career for nearly ten years. He highlighted how meaningful it is to represent the company again in the NASCAR Cup Series and emphasized their shared successes.
United Rentals continues to be a special part of my career and carrying their colors once again in the Cup Series means a lot,
?Austin Hill, Driver
Hill also noted past milestones with the No. 33 team, recalling their first top-10 finish last season in Chicago and the competitive effort they showed at Talladega’s fall race. He views expanding his Cup Series schedule as an important step toward his ultimate aspiration.
Racing on Sundays full time is the end goal, so expanding the track lineup will be a good challenge to gain experience. Grateful to Richard, every man and woman at RCR, ECR, and CT Spring, and of course United Rentals for the opportunity.
?Austin Hill, Driver
Review of Hill’s NASCAR Cup Series Experience to Date
Austin Hill debuted in the Cup Series in 2022 at Michigan International Speedway, finishing 18th in his first race. Since then, the Georgia native has participated in 14 additional Cup events, competing across a variety of track types including superspeedways, road courses, and ovals. His best result so far is a ninth-place finish on the Chicago street course. The Phoenix start will be his first Cup Series race at that venue.
Team and Sponsor Perspectives on the Partnership
Mike Verlander, President of Richard Childress Racing, spoke highly of the relationship between RCR and United Rentals, highlighting their successful collaboration over the past five years in branding and fan engagement efforts.
Everyone at RCR is proud of our long-standing partnership with United Rentals and looking forward to building on the strong branding, at-track activation and hosting programs we have developed together over the last five years,
?Mike Verlander, President, RCR
United Rentals also stressed their role in Hill’s rise in NASCAR, expressing enthusiasm for continuing to support his selected races in 2026.
United Rentals has been instrumental in Austin Hill’s continued rise and success, and together we’re looking forward to watching him in the NASCAR Cup Series for select races in 2026.
?United Rentals Representative
Implications for Hill’s Career and NASCAR’s 2026 Season
This limited schedule presents Austin Hill with an important opportunity to gain valuable experience in the Cup Series, further building on his solid performances since his debut. His return with RCR and United Rentals signals confidence in his growth and potential, while fans can anticipate seeing him compete at Phoenix Raceway and other venues. Hill’s participation will also shape RCR’s strategy as they continue featuring multiple drivers in their No. 33 car throughout the year, aiming for competitive results and expanded presence in the Cup Series.
Austin Hill will have five Cup Series starts with United Rentals as his sponsor, starting with Phoenix Raceway. pic.twitter.com/PYE5xKqepw
— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) February 25, 2026
