Days after his shocking death, Busch's family announces that driver died of "severe pneumonia" that "progressed into sepsis

The cause of death for Kyle Busch, the legendary NASCAR driver who died Thursday at the age of 41, has been revealed.

Busch’s family said in a statement Saturday, “The medical evaluation provided to the Busch Family concluded that severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications. The Family asks for continued understanding and privacy during this difficult time.”

A two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the most decorated racers in the sport’s history, Busch was hospitalized a death before his death after suffering from a “severe illness” that forced him to mss the Coca-Cola 600. It was later revealed that Busch had been dealing with respiratory issues in recent weeks, including a “sinus cold” and a persistent cough that was “significant,” as Busch told reporters.

Despite the health issues, Busch continued to train and race. Days before his death, Busch took home his final Nascar win in the Craftsman Truck Series race. His post-race interview has since circulated online following his death: As he stood in Victory Lane at Dover Motor Speedway, he was why these moments never get old.  Busch replied, “Because you never know when the last one is.”

“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,” NASCAR and the Busch family said in a joint statement Thursday.

“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.’”