Austin Hill, a Georgia native, showcased his dominance at the Atlanta Motor Speedway once again by clinching the NASCAR Xfinity Series Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250 title. The race saw Hill lead an impressive 146 out of 163 laps, securing his first victory of the early 2025 season. Driving the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, sponsored by the race’s title sponsor, Hill proved that he truly owns his home track, winning four of the last six Xfinity races in Atlanta.
The night was not without its challenges for Hill, as he briefly lost the lead on a restart with just three laps to go. However, a well-timed tap on his rear bumper from Parker Retzlaff propelled him forward, allowing him to regain the lead entering the first turn on the final lap. In a thrilling finish, Hill held off competitors like reigning series champion Justin Allgaier and Joe Gibbs Racing’s veteran Aric Almirola to clinch the victory by a mere 0.216 seconds.
Reflecting on his win, Hill expressed gratitude towards Retzlaff for the crucial push that helped him secure the lead. He emphasized the significance of his victory, stating, “To be able to do this is something special.” With this win, Hill’s total of five Xfinity Series victories at Atlanta ties a record set by NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick, showcasing his prowess at drafting tracks.
The victory marked Hill’s 11th career win and highlighted his exceptional performance throughout the race. Despite facing stiff competition and a last-lap pass, Hill emerged victorious, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in the Xfinity Series. His remarkable achievement at Atlanta also underscores his team’s success, as teammate Jesse Love clinched the pole position for the race, leading to a weekend sweep of pole and race wins for the Richard Childress Racing team.
As the NASCAR Xfinity Series gears up for the Focused Health 250 at the Circuit of The Americas road course, Hill’s impressive win has positioned him as a frontrunner in the current season. With a 1-point lead over Haas Factory Team driver Sheldon Creed, Hill’s momentum and skill on the track are sure to captivate fans and fellow competitors alike. Stay tuned for more thrilling racing action as the Xfinity Series continues to unfold, showcasing the talent and tenacity of drivers like Austin Hill.
