No time for RCR, Tyler Reddick to look back; focus turns to track

LOUDON, N.H. — While car owner Richard Childress has not spoken publicly about Tyler Reddick signing this week with 23XI Racing for the 2024 season, RCR driver Austin Dillon raised questions about how the announcement could impact Reddick’s team.

Richard Childress Racing has not commented since it issued a statement Tuesday that read in part: The “timing of this announcement could not be any worse.”

Dillon repeated that claim Saturday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and explained the challenges he sees for Reddick’s team.

“I think the biggest thing, for all the hard work and effort that your guys put in for you, it can affect you going into the playoffs, even though you say it’s not going to,” Dillon said. “There’s probably an effect that goes on there. On top of the fact you’ve got sponsors and different things during the year. That’s tough. 

“Is there a good time? I’m sure that’s what they’re going to say, is there ever a good time?

“For our side of it, yeah, there’s probably a better time — when the season is over. Then you talk about it and you figure out the best way to move forward. Midseason, everybody is really focused on trying to win races and that can be tough.”

Reddick reiterated Saturday his commitment to Richard Childress Racing and through the 2023 season. He’ll start 13th in Sunday’s Cup race (3 p.m. ET on USA Network).

“The good thing is I’ve got plenty of time left to continue to do what I wanted to come to RCR and do,” Reddick said. “That’s win races and try to put ourselves in contention … for championships. I’ve got a really good team behind me, and I am behind them.”

Dillon said he called Reddick after the announcement and told him: “I’ve enjoyed working with you, congratulations on your new deal.”