Kyle Busch, the prominent NASCAR Cup Series driver and two-time champion, died on Thursday, at the age of 41 years old.

No cause of death was given.

NASCAR confirmed the news in a tragic announcement, days before the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday afternoon.

“We are saddened and heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup champion and one of our sport’s greatest and fiercest drivers. He was 41 years old. We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community,” they wrote.

The Busch family, meanwhile, released a statement on his passing, as well.

“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch. 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. 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.’ 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. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon,” the family wrote.

“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.”

Busch’s wife, Samantha, posted one final photo before his death

Samantha Busch, who is quite active on social media, with more than 280,000 followers on Instagram, was posting photos to her Instagram Story as of Wednesday evening.

Her final post prior to her husband’s death ended up being a family photo. It’s heartbreaking to see now.

It’s unfathomable to imagine what the Busch family is going through right now.

Our thoughts are with her friends and family members during this extremely difficult time. May he rest in peace.

This story was originally published by The Spun on May 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.