Kyle Busch, the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion died at the age of 41, it was announced on Thursday.

NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing confirmed Busch’s death on Thursday after his family earlier announced he had been hospitalised with a severe illness.

No further details about the illness were released.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community,” NASCAR said in a statement.

Busch was regarded as one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR history, having won Cup Series titles in 2015 and 2019 and recorded 63 victories in the series.

He also became the winningest driver in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts and Craftsman Truck Series history, with 102 and 69 wins respectively.

Busch competed at NASCAR’s top level from 2005 and joined Richard Childress Racing in 2023.

Known for his aggressive driving style and fierce competitiveness, he became one of the sport’s most recognisable and divisive figures.

In a joint statement, NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing described Busch as “a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.”