Nepotism or a Family Tradition? The influence of family connections in various professions, including sports, is a common occurrence. NASCAR is no exception to this trend. In 2005, out of a total of 76 drivers, 23 had family ties to current or former drivers, whether as sons, brothers, or fathers. Naturally, concerns about nepotism arise from time to time.

Over time, NASCAR teams appear to be even more inclined toward favoring their own kin. Richard Childress Racing and Joe Gibbs Racing serve as prime examples of this tendency. However, it’s important to note that not every case is a carbon copy. Dale Earnhardt Jr., for instance, stands out as a prime example of a son following in his father’s footsteps successfully. Still, questions do emerge, what if a family member fails to meet the intended goals?

NASCAR fans take aim at Richard Childress and Austin Dillon

Richard Childress Racing stands as one of the premier and most successful teams across all formats of the sport. The memory of Dale Earnhardt’s seven championships in the iconic #3 car remains a shining achievement for RCR. In an effort to uphold this legacy, Richard Childress passed down the reins of the car to his grandson, Austin Dillon.

Throughout his 12-year Cup career and 336 starts, Dillon has secured victory in only four Cup races. In stark contrast, Kyle Busch, in his inaugural year with Richard Childress Racing, clinched victory in three races. Is it truly justifiable to prioritize family connections over performance? Certainly not.

Australian driver Brodie Kostecki further rubbed salt to Richard Childress’s wounds by qualifying 11th in his first NASCAR start, while Dillon found himself in the 27th. As the team shared the qualifying results from Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the inevitable comparisons among all three drivers rekindled the lingering question: is it time to bid farewell to Austin Dillon?

Fans demanded to end Richard Childress’s “Pop saved seat” and suggested a replacement

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The comment section overflowed with critiques aimed at both Richard Childress and Austin Dillon. It was not the first time fans raised nepotism claims against a $250 million owner. Fans were vocal in their demands for a change in the driver’s seat, advocating for the inclusion of new drivers who consistently excel in the lower tiers. One fan posed a pointed question directed at Childress,

“Dillon in the same equipment. Why does Kyle beat him every week?”

Another fan inquired, “my guy austin what are you doing?”

A comment humorously noted, ”Hahaha in his first NASCAR race ever Brodie out qualified Dillon”

Expressing frustration with Richard Childress, one commenter wrote, 

A straightforward suggestion emerged, “The day Austin Dillon is released from the 3 Car is the day the community will be at peace”

Interestingly, some fans came forward with potential solutions. Austin Hill, leading the Xfinity standings for RCR with 4 wins and 849 points, is viewed as a stronger contender for the #3 seat. Fans are eager to see him take over next year.

“Can Austin hill please take the 3 next year?”

READ MORE: Kyle Busch Reveals Richard Childress’ “Nemesis” as He Lets Slip the “Biggest Issue” Keeping Them From Dominating

“Austin Dillon needs to go
I like Gragson, Hill”

“Austin Hill > Austin Dillon”

Austin Dillon clinched his most recent victory at the 2022 Coke Zero Sugar 400 in Daytona. As the clamor from fans demanding change grows louder, the spotlight turns toward Richard Childress and his response to this mounting pressure. Do you believe a change is on the horizon, and if so, who is your favored choice for the replacement?

Watch This Story: Kyle Busch Makes Bold Comments About His Chances At The Regular Season Championship