NASCAR champion Kyle Busch dead at 41 after severe illness
Kyle Busch, one of NASCAR’s most successful drivers and a two-time Cup Series champion, has died after being hospitalized with a severe illness, NASCAR and his family said. He was 41.
NASCAR announced his death on Thursday, hours after his family said Busch had been hospitalized and would not compete in scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
“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.
Busch, who was known for his aggressive driving style and sharp personality, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level and set records for national series wins across a career that lasted more than two decades. He was driving for Richard Childress Racing, one of NASCAR’s best-known teams.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch,” a joint statement from the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR said. “A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation.”
The statement described Busch as fierce, passionate and “immensely skilled,” saying he cared deeply about the sport and its fans. It also cited his work as an owner in the Truck Series, where he helped develop younger drivers.
“His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation,’” the statement said.
Earlier Thursday, Busch’s family said he had “experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization” and was undergoing treatment. No cause of death was immediately released.
Busch is survived by his wife, Samantha, and their children, Brexton and Lennix. The family asked for privacy.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
