Austin Hill, currently second in the NASCAR Xfinity Series driver standings, achieved a significant milestone by securing his first top-10 finish in a Cup Series race during Sunday’s Chicago Street Race. Meanwhile, Justin Allgaier continues to hold a firm lead in the Xfinity Series points, reinforcing his status as the top contender.
Austin Hill’s Breakthrough Performance in Cup Series
<p Hill, running a limited Cup schedule for Richard Childress Racing, started from 30th position on Sunday but steadily climbed the ranks. He stayed on the track for the entire opening stage, improving to ninth place, and skillfully avoided accidents during the final stage to remain among the leaders. Hill described the result as a major personal achievement after finishing fourth the previous Saturday in The Loop 110, an event won by Shane van Gisbergen. Reflecting on his performance, Hill said,
“I was really made in the Xfinity Series, finishing fourth. To finish ninth in a Cup race, I feel like I won the race.” —Austin Hill
Despite falling just short of the Xfinity Series lead, Hill’s consistent efforts include three wins and nine top-five finishes in 18 races this season. He faces Justin Allgaier, who maintains the best odds to win the championship according to FanDuel Sportsbook ahead of the upcoming Sonoma Raceway event.
Though Hill has reportedly declined offers to move into a full-time Cup schedule, his rising profile suggests continued growth in his racing career. He remains confident about his abilities, stating,
“I’ve always had confidence in myself that I can do this and that I can run inside the top 10 and top 15 and we proved that (Sunday).” —Austin Hill
Latest Outlook on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Drivers’ Championship
The 2025 drivers’ championship odds released by FanDuel Sportsbook show Justin Allgaier as the frontrunner holding the top spot in the points standings, with Austin Hill trailing closely behind. These odds highlight the ongoing battle for the series title as the season approaches critical late stages.
As the competition intensifies, attention now turns to next weekend’s race at Sonoma Raceway, where both drivers will look to build momentum. Hill’s breakthrough Cup finish could serve as a confidence boost, while Allgaier aims to maintain his position as the Justin Allgaier Xfinity Series leader heading into the final stretch of the season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Justin Allgaier make the 500?
A. After Justin Allgaier finished ninth in the Daytona 500, his first race as a Cup car owner, Earnhardt congratulated him on pit road. “Well done,” Earnhardt said as they high-fived. He then smiled and hugged Allgaier, saying, “Just like we planned.”