Kyle Busch, a two-time Nascar Cup Series champion, has died at the age of 41 after being hospitalized with a severe illness, Nascar confirmed in a statement released on Thursday.
Nascar Expresses Heartbreak
"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. He was 41 years old," the racing organization wrote on social media. "We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community." No cause of death was disclosed.
Hospitalization and Recent Health Struggles
Busch's family had earlier announced his hospitalization on Thursday, stating that he would not compete as planned at this weekend's Nascar race in Charlotte, North Carolina. During a Cup Series race on 10 May at Watkins Glen, Busch had radioed his crew requesting medical assistance from Dr. Bill Heisel and a "shot" after the race. According to the television broadcast, Busch had been battling a sinus cold that was aggravated by the intense G-forces and elevation changes at the upstate New York road course. Despite the discomfort, Busch continued racing and finished eighth.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Busch ranked 24th in the Cup Series standings this season, with two top-10 finishes in 12 races. The Las Vegas native secured championships in 2015 and 2019. He was in his fourth season with Richard Childress Racing after previously winning titles with Joe Gibbs Racing. Busch accumulated 234 victories across Nascar's three national series, more than any other driver in history, with his last win occurring in 2023.
Known as "Rowdy" and "Wild Thing" for his post-race altercations, frequent disputes with fellow drivers, and occasionally eccentric behaviour, the multi-talented Busch burst onto the Cup Series scene in 2005 by winning Rookie of the Year. Over his career, he achieved 63 Cup Series race wins.
Survivors
Busch is survived by his wife, Samantha, and their children, Brexton and Lennix. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
