The extended NASCAR community has spoken out in the wake of racing legend Kyle Busch’s death.
The athlete died at age 41 on Thursday, May 21, following a “severe illness,” according to a statement released on behalf of the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch,” the statement began. “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 skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans.”
As the statement continued, it called out Busch’s two-decade-long career and the records he broke through several NASCAR races.
“His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’ Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha’s parents, Kurt and all of Kyle’s family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans,” the statement continued. “NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Further updates will be shared as appropriate.”
Keep scrolling to see who else spoke out following news of Busch’s death:
Denny Hamlin
“Absolutely cannot comprehend this news,” the NASCAR driver shared via X, sharing the organization’s statement. “We just need to think of his family during this time. We love you KB.”
Brad Keselowski
“Absolute shock. Very hard to process,” the driver wrote via X. “Hug your loved ones.”
Connor Zilisch
The NASCAR Cup Series driver also shared a tribute via X.
“At a loss for words. Thinking and praying for the entire Busch family.” he shared. “Godspeed my friend.”
Joe Gibbs Racing
Busch raced with the Joe Gibbs Racing team for 15 seasons, from 2008 through 2022.
“Our hearts are broken for Samantha, Brexton, Lennix, and the entire Busch family,” they shared in a company statement. “Kyle was a fierce competitor, an incredible teammate, and, far more importantly, a devoted husband, father, and son. His impact on our organization and on the sport of NASCAR will never be forgotten.”
They added, “During this unimaginable time, everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing and the Gibbs family are lifting the Busch family up in prayer.”
Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
The NASCAR racer also shared his condolences on X.
“There aren’t really words for today,” he wrote. “I’ve raced against Kyle for a long time, and anyone who’s lined up next to him knows exactly what made him special, he gave you everything he had, every single lap, and he made all of us better for it.”
Stenhouse Jr. added, “But more than the wins and the records, I keep thinking about Samantha, Brexton, and Lennix, and the entire Busch family right now. That’s where my heart is.”
The driver concluded his message with a note to Busch, using the late athlete’s nickname.
“Rest easy, Rowdy,” Stenhouse Jr. wrote. “The sport won’t be the same without you.”
Marco Andretti
Racing legend Martio Andretti’s grandson took to X with a tribute.
“No words,” he wrote. “Here for the family.”
Sage Steele
“This is shocking,” the ESPN anchor wrote on X. “I’m so so sorry to hear this.”
