The circumstances of Bush’s death are unclear, but his family said he was hospitalized Thursday morning with a “serious illness.”
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After two championships, reactions from the NASCAR world are pouring in Kyle Busch dies Thursday. The circumstances of Bush’s death are unclear, but his family said he was hospitalized Thursday morning due to a “serious illness.”
The official NASCAR account confirmed his death, writing: “It is with great sadness and heartbreak that we share the news of the passing of Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup champion and one of the greatest and most ferocious drivers in the sport,” they wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community.”
NASCAR Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski posted: “Absolutely shocked. Hard to accept. Hug the ones you love.”
NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin said: “Absolutely unable to comprehend this news. We just need to think of his family during this time. We love you, KB.”
NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. reacted in part to the new statement: “There’s really nothing to say today. I’ve been racing against Kyle for a long time and anybody who’s been around him knows what makes him special, he gives you everything he’s got, every lap, he makes all of us better.”
Racing legend Marco Andretti: “No words to say. This is for the family.”
NASCAR driver Anthony Alfredo: “This is horrific. My prayers go out to the entire Busch family at such a tragic time. Kyle will forever be a legend and leave an unparalleled impact.”
NASCAR driver Josh Bilicki: “Just speechless. Thoughts and prayers with the entire Busch family.”
NASCAR pit reporter Wendy Venturini: “I’m at a loss for words right now. Praying for Samantha and the entire Busch family.”
Busch was scheduled to race this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway before being hospitalized. The Speedway Motorsports CEO released a statement that read in part: “Kyle Busch is a champion of champions, a once-in-a-lifetime competitor whose grit, unmistakable driving style and relentless pursuit of excellence make him one of the best drivers in the sport. When Kyle steps behind the wheel, he brings an intensity and determination that demands the respect of his competitors and inspires fans throughout motorsports.”
The president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway released a statement regarding the death of Kyle Busch. “Everyone at Indianapolis Motor Speedway is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Kyle Busch. Kyle was one of the most dominant racers in IMS history, making history with back-to-back NASCAR Cup Series Brickyard 400 wins in 2015 and 2016 and sweeping the Cup Series and NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Accessories Series over the years. He Having won a record four O’Reilly Series races in 2016 at the Capital Racing Capital of the World and commencing his 700th Cup start on the 30th anniversary of the 2024 Brickyard 400 at IMS, he was beloved by fans for his competitive spirit and passion and our deepest sympathies are with his wife Samantha, children Braxton and Lennix, the entire Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire NASCAR family.”
