NASCAR CUP SERIES: COOK OUT 400

August 16, 2025

Austin Dillon

Frontstretch Quotes

An Interview with:

Q. Welcome to the Playoffs, Austin Dillon. The way it all played out last year, how important was it for you to come back in front of sellout crowd and do it the right way?

AUSTIN DILLON: Man, that feels good. Got to thank the good Lord above. I really wanted that one. Last year hurt really bad just going through the whole process of it. But this one feels so sweet. Man, I love Richmond.

Our Winchester Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet is really good. I was (indiscernible) out a lot this week. Didn't feel great. I'm actually racing with a broken rib right now for the last two weeks.

Man, that was awesome.

Q. All the emotion this team went through, the entire organization at RCR, does this year-long wait make it worth it?

AUSTIN DILLON: Oh, for sure. God has timing. His timing is the best timing. So excited to get my wife and kids here to celebrate with us.

Man, it's so sweet. My dad prayed with me before the race. He was at our hunting land doing some food plots. It's just so special. Every one of these means so much to me. My grandfather, for all that he's put up in believing in me, because there's been a lot of ups and downs, could have been easy for him to change the drivers in this 3 car. Today it feels really darn good.

Q. What is it about this place that makes you come alive?

AUSTIN DILLON: Tire management. I'm probably the slowest to get going on some of these tracks when it really comes to high grip. But when it comes to these places and taking care of your stuff, I'll go against the best of them.

Q. How about doing this for RCR, did you feel you were carrying the weight of the entire company?

AUSTIN DILLON: We really love it. Welcome North Carolina. When you cross those railroad tracks, it's all for one and one for all. Really pumped to be driving for my grandfather and my family.