“Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization,” the statement shared to his social media accounts read. “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.”

Hours later NASCAR confirmed the driver—who holds the record for most national series wins at 234—had died, noting the organization was “heartbroken” over the loss. 

“A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation,” the statement continued. “He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. 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,'” NASCAR added, noting the racing community “lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.”

And Busch’s peers, too, have shared their shock and sadness over the loss of the racing legend, who was dad to kids Brexton, 11, and Lennix, 4, with wife Samantha Busch. 

“Kyle was one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. No one can deny that,” Dale Earnhardt Jr. wrote on X. “But he was also a father, a husband, brother, son, and a friend to many. My heart is broken for the Busch family. I will never be able to make sense of this loss.”

USA Sports, too, mourned Busch’s passing.

"We are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Kyle Busch,” read a statement shared May 21. "Kyle was a generational talent that so many members of our production and editorial teams had the privilege to cover and interact with throughout his incredible NASCAR career. Our thoughts are with the Busch family and the entire motorsports community during this difficult time."

For more insight into Busch’s life on and off the racetrack, read on.