Richard Childress Says Kyle Busch, 41, Was Near RCR Extension Before Death
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 6
Richard Childress Says Kyle Busch, 41, Was Near RCR Extension Before Death
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jun 6
Summary
Michigan International Speedway became the setting for Richard Childress' first public remarks on Kyle Busch's May 21 death, where he said the team had expected to announce a contract extension instead.
Busch, 41, died after severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, a day after becoming unresponsive while testing in Chevrolet's simulator in Concord, North Carolina; Childress said he spoke with him the night before he was hospitalized.
RCR had seen momentum despite Busch's 105-race Cup win drought — including a season-best eighth at Watkins Glen after a crew chief change — and Childress said Busch believed recent cars were good enough to make the playoffs.
Austin Hill, already driving Busch's car for the past two races as RCR shifts to the No. 33, will stay in the seat for the rest of the season to avoid further disruption.
Childress also said Busch should enter the NASCAR Hall of Fame immediately and that RCR will safeguard the No. 8 for a possible future Cup run by Busch's 11-year-old son, Brexton.
With its star driver gone, what is the long-term future for Richard Childress Racing?
Will NASCAR break its own rules for Kyle Busch's Hall of Fame induction?
Could earlier medical intervention have prevented the racing legend's shocking death?
NASCAR Mourns Kyle Busch: The Impact and Aftermath of a 2-Time Cup Champion’s Death at 41
Overview
Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, died suddenly on May 21, 2026, after a severe case of pneumonia quickly turned into sepsis. Just days before, he had won a Truck Series race at Dover, but soon after confided he was still feeling unwell with a persistent cough. His unexpected passing shocked the entire NASCAR community and deeply affected his team, Richard Childress Racing. Team owner Richard Childress, who had planned to announce a contract extension for Busch, publicly addressed the loss, highlighting the profound impact on both the team and the sport.