Austin Hill secured his spot in the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series championship finale next month by clinching his fourth win of the season at the Homestead-Miami Speedway on Saturday.

He maneuvered his No. 21 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing past Cole Custer with just 12 laps remaining, thus ensuring his place alongside AJ Allmendinger, who qualified for the championship last week in Las Vegas.

“I have put in so much effort for this moment,” Hill expressed as he aims for his first championship title, adding, “many people have doubted me, but I rise every day determined to prove them wrong. I have earned my place here, and I am ready to compete for the championship.”

Starting the race in fifth position among eight playoff contenders and under the cutline, Hill dominated the event and led for 79 of the laps. He ultimately finished ahead of Custer with a margin of 3.045 seconds.

Overcome with emotion before even crossing the finish line, Hill stated, “Aw, man. That’s awesome,” while fighting back tears.

“I can sincerely say I’ve never cried while nearing the finish line,” he shared. “I struggled to contain my emotions as I approached Turn 1.”

Custer, driving the No. 00 Ford for Stewart-Haas Racing, climbed to fourth place in the overall standings following the race.

Aric Almirola, who did not qualify for the playoffs, took third place racing for Joe Gibbs Racing. Jesse Love, also from Richard Childress Racing, maintained sixth place in the standings by finishing right behind him.

Other playoff participants included Justin Allgaier (eighth), Chandler Smith (13th), Sam Mayer (ninth), and Sammy Smith (22nd).

The final race ahead of the championship showdown will be held at Martinsville Speedway on November 2.