Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion known for his aggressive driving style and the nickname "Rowdy," has died at the age of 41. His family confirmed the news on Thursday, just hours after revealing he had been hospitalized with a severe illness.
"We are devastated to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch," his family, Richard Childress Racing, and NASCAR said in a joint statement. "Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken. A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent."
Busch was in his 22nd full-time season in the Cup Series, winning 63 races-ninth on the all-time list-and titles in 2015 and 2019. Fellow driver Denny Hamlin posted on social media: "Absolutely cannot comprehend this news. We just need to think of his family during this time."
Born in Las Vegas, Busch entered the sport as the younger brother of Hall of Famer Kurt Busch. After starting with Hendrick Motorsports, he moved to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2008, becoming the face of Toyota's NASCAR efforts. He joined Richard Childress Racing in 2023, driving the No. 8 Chevrolet.
Busch is survived by his wife Samantha, children Brexton and Lennix, and his parents.