NASCAR driver Austin Dillon is using his position as general manager of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Team Series Carolina Cowboys as a stepping stone toward possible leadership within Richard Childress Racing. This opportunity offers Dillon a chance to gain hands-on experience managing a sports team outside of racing, which could prepare him for a future executive role. His involvement began when Richard Childress, the owner of Richard Childress Racing and Dillon’s grandfather, purchased the Cowboys at the PBR Team Series launch in 2022 under the condition that Dillon would actively participate in team operations.

Learning the Ropes of Team Management

Dillon quickly immersed himself in his new responsibilities, dedicating significant time to studying game footage and conducting research. His early efforts included negotiating initial contracts, some of which were among the first in the league’s history. Most of Dillon’s responsibilities focus on managing the team roster and overseeing administrative details. Carolina Cowboys coach Jerome Davis praised Dillon’s dedication, highlighting his genuine enthusiasm for the sport as a key aspect of their collaboration.

Balancing Management Duties with Racing Commitments

Despite his new role, Dillon remains fully committed to his NASCAR career. He schedules general manager meetings on Wednesdays and often uses evenings to stay in contact with coach Davis and review team developments. Outside of these times, his schedule is primarily devoted to racing activities. Dillon attends only a few Cowboys events each year, indicating that his main professional dedication remains with NASCAR. Last season, his team finished as the league runner-up, demonstrating competitive success under his management.

Potential Impact on Dillon’s Future in NASCAR

Richard Childress acknowledged that he will not be at the helm forever and emphasized the importance of Dillon gaining firsthand experience managing relationships with riders and league officials. He noted,

“I’m not going to be here forever, and I want him to understand how it is to deal with riders, the sanctioning body, the whole deal. He’s really adapted to it well.”

—Richard Childress, Owner, Richard Childress Racing

The involvement with the Carolina Cowboys offers Dillon a valuable opportunity to refine skills that transfer well between professional bull riding and NASCAR management. This cross-sport leadership trial may help Dillon build the foundation needed to take on greater responsibilities within Richard Childress Racing in the future.