NASCAR driver Kyle Busch dies aged 41 after 'severe illness' as family issue heartbreaking statement

Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 'one of the sport’s greatest drivers', Kyle Busch, has died aged 41 after experiencing 'severe illness' resulting in hospitalisation.

NASCAR confirmed his passing with an official statement shared on Thursday (21 May) after the Busch family announced the news.

At this point, the cause of death has not been released, and details remain limited.

Prior to his death, Busch was testing in the Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord on Wednesday (20 May) when he became unresponsive and was transported to a hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR made the following joint statement: "On behalf of the Busch family, everyone at Richard Childress Racing and all of NASCAR, we are devastated to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch.

NASCAR star Kyle Busch has died aged 41 following a 'severe illness' which resulted in hospitalisation (James Gilbert / Stringer / Getty Images)

"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."

The statement continued: "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'.

Busch is survived by his parents, wife Samantha, son Brexton and daughter Lennix (Sean Gardner / Stringer / Getty Images)

"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 joint statement concluded: "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."

The 41-year-old was set to compete at the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina this weekend.

However, Busch's family shared a statement on X on Thursday, before his passing, which read: "Statement Regarding Kyle Busch from the Busch Family:

Busch's family released a statement on Thursday (Instagram/@samanthabusch)

"Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalisation. He is currently undergoing treatment and will not compete in any of his scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

"We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation."

Just days before his death, Busch shared a heartfelt birthday message to his son, Brexton, who turned 11 on Monday (18 May).

Sharing a series of photos, he wrote: "Happy Birthday Brexton!!! Your mom & I are so proud of who you’re turning out to be! You’re the best kid on & off the track, you amaze us every day. Keep doing what you’re doing and there is no limit to what you’ll accomplish! Love you buddy!"

Busch is survived by his parents and his wife, Samantha, whom he married on New Year’s Eve in 2010, and two children, son Brexton and four-year-old daughter Lennix.