Bubba Wallace's Tribute To Kyle Busch Will Bring Tears To Your Eyes
NASCAR lost a giant this week in two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch.
Richard Childress Racing announced Thursday morning that Busch was hospitalized with a severe illness. Several hours later, NASCAR sadly confirmed that Bush passed away at the age of 41.
"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," NASCAR's statement read. "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."
According to The Associated Press, the NASCAR legend testing in the Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord on Wednesday when he was found unresponsive. Additional details regarding his death haven't been shared with the public at this time.
Countless current and former NASCAR drivers have paid their respects to Busch over the past 24 hours, including Bubba Wallace.
Wallace posted several photos and videos of him and Busch along with a beautiful message about their special connection.
"My eyes hurt from all the crying, my heart hurts from the pain. Just Sunday, mid race I thought about Kyle Busch and the one of many lessons that he had taught me. 'Is it loose? Drive thru it and trust it.' Kyle was a monumental factor in who Bubba Wallace is today. I sit here and look at all things around me and all the things I've been able to accomplish..Kyle played a role in every aspect. That's what hurts the most. An icon and a legend that I looked up to…is no longer with us," Wallace wrote on Instagram.
"Myself along with many other drivers, crew chiefs, mechanics, etc… learned so much from Kyle. His legacy will continue to transcend in this sport for years to come. Honored to have shared the same race track with one of the best to ever do it. Thank you for all you've done for me. I will miss my drafting buddy on the plate races. Rest easy my brother. Love to you and your family!"
NASCAR fans react to Bubba's heartfelt tribute.
A plethora of NASCAR fans thanked Wallace for sharing such kind words about Busch.
"I always could tell you two has a special relationship. Devastating. Praying for his family," a fan replied.
"Dang good tribute Bubba. Rowdy Nation says thank you," one person wrote.
"Amazing tribute, Bubba. We're all gonna miss him dearly," another fan said.
"Well said Bubba. What a guy he was," an Instagram user added.
Busch had an incredible NASCAR career, racking up 63 Cup Series wins, 102 O'Reilly Auto Parts Series wins and 69 Craftsman Truck Series wins.
The legacy of Kyle Busch will live on for years to come.
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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 2:15 PM.