NASCAR legend Kyle Busch tragically died at the age of 41 Thursday … and we are starting to learn more about what happened prior to his shocking passing.
Before being hospitalized … Busch was testing in a racing simulator in Concord on Wednesday when he became unresponsive — and was rushed for medical care, the Associated Press reported via unnamed sources.
NASCAR Champion Kyle Busch Dies At 41
Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has died at the age of 41. NASCAR confirmed the news in a statement on Thursday (May 21). The Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR also put out a joint statement.
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… pic.twitter.com/FARIF6OKrw
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) May 21, 2026
Busch was scheduled to compete in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Sunday, May 24. However, his family announced on May 21 that the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion was hospitalized with what they described as a “severe illness” and will no longer participate in any racing activities.
The statement did not provide any additional details about Kyle Busch’s illness. However, PEOPLE reports the NASCAR star appeared to be dealing with health issues earlier this month.
Kyle is survived by his wife, Samantha, and their two children Brexton (11) and Lennix (4).
Kyle Busch Requests Doctor During Final Race
Following the May 10 race at Watkins Glen International, Busch was reportedly heard over the team radio asking crew members to bring a doctor to his bus. During the televised broadcast, reporters noted he seemed to be battling what was described as a “sinus cold.”
“Can somebody try to find Bill Heisel. He’s the kindred doctor, guy, tell him I need him after the race, please,” Busch could be heard in the audio.
The NASCAR driver then explained he would need a “shot” immediately following the race. You can listen to that audio below.
Kyle Busch has asked for a doctor to meet him after the race at Watkins Glen. pic.twitter.com/8kfcVEqwjs
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) May 10, 2026
We are praying for Busch’s family and friends during this unimaginable time.
