NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Matt Tifft to move to RCR in 2018

Richard Childress Racing announced on Thursday that Tifft will compete full-time in the Xfinity Series next season with the organization, driving its No. 2 Chevrolet. Tifft, 21, currently competes with Joe Gibbs Racing.

In its news release, RCR said it had signed Tifft to a “multi-year deal” but that sponsorship for the team and a crew chief will be announced at a later date.

“I am very appreciative and grateful for the opportunity to race for a championship and grow as a driver under one the most successful and historic teams in NASCAR,” said Tifft. "RCR has a long history of developing partnerships through its Xfinity Series program.

“I am looking forward to being a part of the family and applying what I have learned in my first full-time Xfinity Series season while continuing to grow with the goal of competing in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series in the future.”

Tifft, a native of Hinckley, Ohio, has made 70 starts across NASCAR's top three national series dating back to 2013, including 39 in the Xfinity Series. Tifft’s career-best finish in Xfinity is a pair of third-place finishes this season at Mid-Ohio and Road America.

“Matt is a talented race car driver and an even better young man,” said RCR owner Richard Childress. “I've watched him race for the past few years and we were impressed by his ability.

“We look forward to welcoming Matt to our Xfinity Series program and having him compete for a championship with RCR.”