NASCAR Driver Kyle Busch Dies At Age 41 After ‘Serious Illness’ Hospitalization

Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has died at age 41. NASCAR, his family, and Richard Childress Racing announced his death Thursday evening.

"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 said in its release. "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.’ 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.

"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.”

Early Thursday, RCR announced that Busch had been hospitalized with a "severe illness." Busch raced on May 10 at Watkins Glen, and had indicated near the end of the race on radio that he needed medical attention after the race. It's unclear at this time if the illnesses are connected. He raced again - and won - in the EcoSave 200 Truck Series race on May 15. And raced in the NASCAR All-Star race last Sunday.

Busch won 63 races over his NASCAR Cup Series career, the ninth-highest win total of all time. He also won 102 Xfinity Series races, and 69 Craftsman Truck series races. Both of those totals are records.

He is survived by his wife Samantha, and an 11-year-old son, and a 4-year-old daughter.