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The NASCAR community has said goodbye to a legend.
Kyle Busch, the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the winningest drivers in the sport’s history, has died at 41, according to the organization.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch,” NASCAR shared in a May 21 statement to X. “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.”
The organization added, “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.”
Kyle is survived by his wife Samantha Busch and their kids Brexton, 11, and Lennix, 4, who the company said has its “thoughts.”
“NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon,” the statement continued. “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.”
Earlier in the day, Kyle’s family announced he was experiencing a “severe illness” that resulted in him being hospitalized.
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“He is currently undergoing treatment and will not compete in any of his scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway,” the family shared in a statement to X. “We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation.”
Kyle’s racing team Richard Childress Racing also shared their support for his family.
“Kyle Busch’s health is our upmost priority and he and his family have the full resources of RCR behind them,” the organization wrote on X. “Kyle is an integral part of our organization and we wish him a safe and speedy recovery.”
For a look back at Kyle’s life in photos with his family, keep reading…
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Team Effort
From the race track in Texas to his home in Las Vegas, Kyle Busch loves making memories with his wife Samantha and their son Brexton.
Look of Love
"My forever valentine," Samantha wrote on Instagram when celebrating the romantic holiday. "Thank you for always making me laugh and live life to the fullest. I love you!"
Future Racer
"Congrats Brexton on a great season at @millbridgespeedway," Samantha wrote on Instagram when celebrating her son's racing milestone. "We are so proud of you!!! You have grown and improved so much this season to winning your first Saturday Night Series Championship! We can't wait to see what you do this year!"
Fierce Fashion
When it's time to go out for date night, Samantha has one request for her husband: "Leather jacket required," she wrote on Instagram.
Fall Festivities
Racing around a track is cool, but so is finding the perfect pumpkin. "The most perfect pumpkins in the patch @samanthabusch @brextonbusch," Kyle wrote at Instagram. "Fun times at the @bundleofjoyfund play date."
Winner, Winner
Where do Kyle and Samantha go for a date night done right? Vegas, baby! As Kyle wrote on Instagram, "I hit the jackpot w u @samanthabusch."
Fun in the Sun
Life isn't all work and no play for Kyle. In fact, the Nascar driver loves to enjoy vacations with his family. Bonus points if the location is somewhere tropical.
Magical Memories
What's the first thing you do after winning a Nascar race? Go to Disney World, obviously.
Cheers to Love
"Hey pretty baby w the high heels on," Kyle wrote on Instagram when enjoying a romantic evening at La Belle Helene Restaurant in Charlotte, N.C.
Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Famly Affair
When Kyle won the NASCAR Xfinity Series Pit Boss 250 in May 2021, his wife Samantha and son Brexton took a trip down victory lane in Austin, Texas to celebrate the driver.
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