Kyle Busch has been hospitalized with a severe illness, his family revealed in a statement via the NASCAR Cup Series driver’s X account on Thursday, May 21.
“Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization,” the statement 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.”
Busch, 41, had been scheduled to compete in the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 24. Richard Childress Racing, Busch’s team, announced that Austin Hill will take his place.
“Kyle Busch’s health is our upmost priority and he and his family have the full resources of RCR behind them,” RCR said in a statement posted via X. “Kyle is an integral part of our organization and we wish him a safe and speedy recovery. His No. 8 Chevrolet will be ready and waiting for him. We’re thankful to Austin Hill for stepping in to drive the No. 8 Chevrolet this weekend. Please keep Kyle and the Busch family in your prayers, and help us respect the family’s privacy at this time.”
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Hill, 32, made his Cup Series debut in 2022, where he has yet to win a race. Busch currently ranks 24th in the Cup Series standings. His last win came in 2023, his first with RCR.
Kyle’s wife, Samantha Busch, whom he married in 2010, has not commented publicly on his condition as of Thursday afternoon. She and Kyle share son Brexton, 11, and daughter Lennix, 4.
The driver’s most recent Instagram post is a birthday tribute to Brexton, who celebrated his big day on Monday, May 18.
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“Happy Birthday Brexton!!!” he wrote alongside a carousel of images. “Your mom & I are so proud of who you’re turning out to be! You’re the best kid on & off the track, you amaze us every day. Keep doing what you’re doing and there is no limit to what you’ll accomplish! Love you buddy!”
“11 years of loving you, cheering you on, and trying to figure out how you grew up this fast. 🥹,” Samantha, 40, wrote in a tribute of her own. “Happy birthday to my sweet boy. Watching you become this driven, funny, kind-hearted little man has been the greatest gift. So proud of you every single day, Brex.”
She added, “No matter how tall you get or how fast you drive… you’ll always be my baby. 💚🧡🎂.”
