NASCAR driver Kyle Busch has died after being hospitalized with what his family called a “severe illness.” He was 41.
“We are saddened and heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup champion and one of our sport’s greatest and fiercest drivers,” NASCAR said in a statement via X on Thursday, May 21. “We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community.”
The organization released a longer statement minutes later on behalf of the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR, saying it would provide more information as it becomes available.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch,” the statement began. “A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series.
The statement continued, “His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’ Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha’s parents, Kurt and all of Kyle’s family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.”
The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion was scheduled to compete at the Coca-Cola 600 this weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina, but his hospitalization led to his withdrawal. Richard Childress Racing, Busch’s team, announced on Thursday that Austin Hill would take his place in the race.
Busch’s family first broke the news of his illness in a statement via X on Thursday morning.
“Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization,” they wrote. “He is currently undergoing treatment and will not compete in any of his scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation.”
The family did not specify what Busch was suffering from.
RCR also released a statement via X asking for prayers and privacy for Busch’s family.
“Kyle Busch’s health is our upmost priority and he and his family have the full resources of RCR behind them,” the statement read. “Kyle is an integral part of our organization and we wish him a safe and speedy recovery. His No. 8 Chevrolet will be ready and waiting for him. We’re thankful to Austin Hill for stepping in to drive the No. 8 Chevrolet this weekend. Please keep Kyle and the Busch family in your prayers, and help us respect the family’s privacy at this time.”
Busch is survived by wife Samantha as well as the couple’s son, Brexton, 11, and daughter, Lennix, 4.
Kyle’s last Instagram post was a tribute to Brexton, who celebrated his birthday on Monday, May 18.
“Happy Birthday Brexton!!!” he wrote alongside a carousel of photos. “Your mom & I are so proud of who you’re turning out to be! You’re the best kid on & off the track, you amaze us every day. Keep doing what you’re doing and there is no limit to what you’ll accomplish! Love you buddy!”
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