Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 15 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Austin Dillon

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

No. 3 Car – Richard Childress Racing

2025 Stats

Standings	15th
Wins	1
Points	2,152
Stage Points	27
Stage Wins	0
Laps Led	119
Lead Lap Finishes	24
Average Finish	20.8
DNFs	3
Races since last win	11

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

For whatever reason, Austin Dillon seems to have figured out the magic sauce at Richmond.  He seems to be dominant there, and so success for him might look like another win at Richmond.  Again, like Josh Berry before him, he made his way into last year’s playoffs on a win-and-you’re-in rule, so it’s probably too high an order to make it into The Chase in ’26, but a win isn’t out of the question.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

Austin Dillon wins at Richmond, and then picks up another win at a drafting track.  With the new points system where wins count for more, maybe that’s enough for him to sneak into The Chase?

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

RCR hasn’t been super strong in the last few years, and so it’s probably most likely that Dillon stays winless in 2026, and does not find his way into The Chase. 

Bold Prediction?

Richard Childress steps down at the end of the season, Austin Dillon retires from racing and takes over his grandfather’s role leading the team.