Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion who won more races than anyone across NASCAR’s three national series, has died at 41.
The Busch Family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR issued a joint statement Thursday saying that Busch died after being hospitalized. No reason behind death was given.
Busch’s family said earlier Thursday that he was hospitalized with a “severe illness,” three days before he was to compete on the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the lack of Kyle Busch,” the statement said. “A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely expert and he cared deeply concerning the sport and fans.
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The statement went on to say that “throughout a profession that spanned greater than 20 years, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level and fostered the subsequent generation of drivers as an owner within the Truck Series.
His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional reference to race fans of all ages, creating the proud and dependable ‘Rowdy Nation.’”
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