Richard Childress has masterfully upheld the legacy and honor of Dale Earnhardt and his No. 3 Chevy since the fateful drive at the 2001 Daytona 500. That poignant year marked Earnhardt’s untimely departure from this world due to a heart-wrenching last-lap mishap. The re-emergence of #3 on the NASCAR tracks was a thoughtful journey. It first roared back under the command of one of Childress’s grandsons in the Camping World Truck Series, later clinching victories in the Nationwide Series.

In every decision concerning the revered No. 3, the blessings of Dale Earnhardt Jr, and his sister Kelley, were earnestly sought. But this time around, it seems the advice from Dale has come even before the team went out to look for answers. In the recent episode of the Dale Jr, Download podcast, a nod from the racing legend suggests that the current driver of the No. 3 might very well be suited to lead a glorious future for RCR.

Dale Earnhardt Jr envisions Richard Childress’s prot?g? as the worthy heir to the RCR throne

But where does this potential RCR Bossman currently stand? From missing the playoffs to achieving a commendable P10 finish at Homestead Miami Speedway, his 2023 Cup season has been a roller-coaster. But it looks like the winds of change might be coming the driver’s way as Dale Earnhardt Jr hinted at a grand transition for the 33-year-old dynamo, Austin Dillon.

In his words, ?If there?s a path for Austin Dillon to become the face of RCR in the same way that Richard Childress is the face of that organization. I’d be looking for the exit ramp if I was Austin […] And I know Austin is probably already doing this, but somebody needs to sort of be preparing themselves to continue RCR, whatever it is beyond Richard Childress. And so, while I think Austin has plenty of great years in racing cars, the guy can get a race car driver right there that can take over that cup car for Richard and Austin. So, it?ll be interesting; I think that that?s in play. Not sure what exactly the timeline is, but I believe that is sort of the possible direction.?

Adding to the intrigue, Dale Earnhardt Jr holds a hopeful view that while Mike Dillon, Austin’s father, seems poised to lead, he might graciously step aside for his son. Considering the 33-year-old’s recent track record, a shift in roles might be the rejuvenating elixir his career needs. In addition, Austin Dillon, amidst the heartaches, expressed that the recent media attention brought him joy. Perhaps steering a team rather than racing for one could be the golden key to unlocking his future successes.

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Austin Dillon candidly acknowledges a certain disharmony?

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With the 2023 season yet to see a victory from the elder grandson of Richard Childress, Austin Dillon sets his sights on Martinsville, yearning for a silver lining to his challenging year. But as the air grew thick with anticipation before the Homestead-Miami showdown, the 33-year-old shared some introspective thoughts with the media, casting a shade of doubt over his upcoming performance.

His voice, tinged with a mix of melancholy and hope, conveyed, ?I?m just happy to be interviewed right now. 2023 has been a rough year, but we are turning things around the last couple of weeks. The group has been progressively trying to get better, and our qualifying efforts are showing up. We haven?t hit the race balance quite like we need to. Hopefully this weekend we have done a good job.?

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Indeed, a top-10 finish at Homestead Miami Speedway could herald a turning point, hinting at the driver of the No. 3 Chevy’s potential longevity in the racing arena. But given Dale Jr.’s insights, perhaps a change in direction might not be off the mark either.