Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has died at 41 after being hospitalized with a severe illness, his family announced on Thursday.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch,” the Busch Family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR said in a joint statement that Busch died after being hospitalized.
“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. 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.
This marks the first time in over a decade that Busch has been absent from a Cup Series race, with his last significant absence occurring in 2015 due to injuries.
Busch, a formidable figure in NASCAR with 234 career wins, is ranked 24th in the Cup Series standings this season.
