Former NASCAR driver Kyle Busch has passed away at the age of 41 due to severe pneumonia, as shared by his family in a statement on Saturday.
The family’s message revealed that his pneumonia had “progressed to sepsis, causing rapid and overwhelming associated complications.” He died on Thursday, May 21, after being hospitalized for what they described as a serious illness.
In an X post made on May 21 at 10:23 a.m. ET, they updated that he would not be competing in the weekend’s events.
Kyle Busch was hospitalized with a severe illness, and his family requested understanding and privacy as they navigated this difficult situation. They mentioned that he would be unable to participate in activities planned at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.
It was later revealed that on the day before he passed, Busch became unresponsive while using a racing simulator in Concord, North Carolina, leading to his hospitalization.
A joint statement from NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing announced his death at 5:46 p.m. ET on Thursday. They honored Busch as a future Hall of Famer, remarking on his exceptional talent, fierce passion, and his influence on racing and its fans.
Before his death, Busch had been struggling with sinus infections. During a race at Watkins Glen in New York on May 10, he voiced his intent to see a doctor, indicating that he might need a medical shot.
At that time, the broadcast crew mentioned his sinus infection, noting it was worsened by the stresses of the course. Busch’s condition affected his performance last week, resulting in a 17th place finish at the recent NASCAR All-Star Race.
The legendary driver will always be remembered as one of the sport’s greats. Busch secured the Cup Series title in both 2015 and 2019, ranking 9th all-time with 63 Cup Series wins and holding the record for the most wins across all NASCAR levels with 234.
Known as “The Rowdy,” he is survived by his wife, Samantha, their 11-year-old son Brexton, and 4-year-old daughter Lennix.
