Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has died at the age of 41 after severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, his family confirmed in an official statement.
The driver was hospitalized earlier this week in Charlotte, North Carolina, after becoming unresponsive while testing a Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord.
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Emergency responders were called to a General Motors facility after Busch experienced severe shortness of breath, high fever, and coughed up blood.
Busch had been battling a sinus cold, which he mentioned on team radio during a race at Watkins Glen on May 10 and later discussed after winning a Craftsman Truck Series race at Dover Motor Speedway on May 15.
Family Statement and Medical Details
In a public statement, the Busch family explained that a medical evaluation concluded severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, leading to rapid and overwhelming complications.
The family requested privacy during their time of grief and thanked fans for their support.
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Richard Childress Racing temporarily retired Busch's No. 8 car by changing it to No. 33 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, with plans for his 11-year-old son to inherit the number when he is old enough to race.
Fellow driver Brad Keselowski expressed sadness over the unfinished journey of his long-time competitor, noting that their relationship had been thawing in recent years and that he had hoped they would enter the Hall of Fame together.
NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell addressed reporters at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22, saying the organization would respect the family's privacy and share further details in due time.
Busch had been scheduled to compete in the Craftsman Truck Series race and the Coca-Cola 600 over the Memorial Day weekend.
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He had previously described his illness as severe, stating, "I'm still not great" and noting a substantial cough.
