sports
Kyle Busch, two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, dies at 41 after severe illness, family says
Updated on: May 21, 2026 / 7:54 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, died at age 41 due to a severe illness.
- He holds records for most wins in the top three NASCAR divisions and won Cup Series championships in 2015 and 2019.
- Busch had 63 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series and a record 19 consecutive seasons with a victory.
- He was known for his sharp wit, competitive spirit, and was fondly called 'Rowdy' by his fans.
- The news of his passing came shortly after he experienced illness during a race at Watkins Glen.
- Busch was the younger brother of NASCAR Hall of Famer Kurt Busch.