Richard Childress entered NASCAR as a driver in 1969, never imagining he’d build a powerhouse team that would claim six Cup Series championships as an owner. Yet, his journey from independent racer to RCR founder created a lasting family legacy. Now, with Childress at 79, attention turns to his grandson Austin Dillon, who could steer the team forward. But is Austin ready to step into those big shoes?

Childress himself praised Dillon’s preparation, noting, “We bought a PBR franchise, so I put Austin running it to get used to what it was like dealing with drivers… I think this has given him a good education.” Just like the Petty family, where Lee Petty’s legacy passed to sons Richard and Maurice, then grandson Kyle, NASCAR families often hand down the reins. So now, with Childress closing

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