NASCAR Rumor: Richard Childress to announce his retirement (Update)

This rumor is downgraded to ‘false’ today. Shortly after the rumors went viral, Richard Childress Racing cleared the air by putting an end to the rumors. The team’s X page wrote, “This is not accurate. Richard Childress is not planning to retire following the end of the season.”

NEWS: Richard Childress will be retiring following the conclusion of the 2025 NASCAR season. Who will take over his role at RCR is uncertain, but the team is making big changes over the offseason. pic.twitter.com/7MqY1RtHoA

— NASCAR Central (@NSCR_Central) September 30, 2025

Speculation about Richard Childress’ (pictured) retirement has been brewing for some time, fueled by comments from his grandson, Austin Dillon. On the Dale Junior Download, Dillon described Childress as “the rock” of Richard Childress Racing (RCR) but acknowledged that the 80-year-old is slowing down and stepping back from NASCAR’s daily grind.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Family discussions about RCR’s future leadership are becoming more frequent, raising questions about whether Childress’ time as team owner is nearing its end.

Childress entered NASCAR as a driver in 1969, building RCR into a powerhouse with six Cup Series championships. His journey from independent racer to team founder cemented a family legacy now turning toward Dillon.

A recent post on NASCARonReddit amplified the rumors, with a user claiming insider knowledge: “I have family attending an event this weekend where [Childress] is retiring. A family member used to work for a company supplying RCR, and we’d get Dover garage passes through them.”

At 80, Childress remains a trackside fixture, clipboard in hand, embodying RCR’s relentless work ethic. His hands-on leadership has long defined the team, but 2025 has seen Dillon take on a larger role beyond driving. Dillon now contributes to crew chief selections, technical partnerships, and mentoring young talent, including new leaders like Richard Boswell. This shift follows a tough 2024 season, where RCR failed to secure a Cup victory and finished lower than usual in the standings.

Dillon’s dual role—preserving RCR’s legacy while pushing for innovation—positions the team at a critical juncture in an increasingly competitive sport. With rumors swirling about a potential Dodge return to NASCAR in 2027, many see Dillon as the natural successor to guide RCR through this transition. However, Dillon emphasized his focus on driving, saying, “Right now, I’m proud of this team—it’s the best I’ve been part of. But if we can’t compete next year, we’ll need to think about the future.”

As speculation mounts that 2026 could be Dillon’s final full-time season behind the wheel, will 35-year-old grandson of Childress steer RCR into its next chapter?