NASCAR fans received an update this Wednesday regarding the tragic death of two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch.
Busch, who was just 41 years old, died from severe pneumonia that progressed into sepsis. He was found unresponsive Wednesday while in the Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord, North Carolina.
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“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 said. “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 Busch’s death certificate, which was obtained by PEOPLE, he was battling pneumonia “of an undetermined etiology” for “days to weeks.”
Busch was dealing with shortness of breath prior to his death. He also coughed up blood, per the audio from the 911 call that TMZ released.
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“I’ve got an individual that’s [got] shortness of breath, very hot, thinks he’s going to pass out, and he’s producing a little bit of blood, coughing up some blood,” the caller told emergency responders. “He is awake. He’s awake on the bathroom floor right now.”
Mar 29, 2026; Martinsville, Virginia, USA; Richard Childress Racing driver Kyle Busch (8) during practice at Martinsville Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images.
Devastating situation for the NASCAR community.
NASCAR fans are heartbroken over this update as they believe Busch’s death was preventable. For what it’s worth, Robotic surgeon Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt discussed sepsis and the common misconceptions surrounding it in a recent article for CNN.
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“Pneumonia isn’t the only infection that can lead to sepsis. A skin infection that keeps spreading and raises your heart rate. A urinary tract infection that suddenly lowers your blood pressure. An infected kidney stone that raises your temperature – these are not just infections anymore. They could be sepsis,” Dr. Brahmbhatt wrote. “Busch’s death has put the spotlight on pneumonia, but it is only one possible cause of sepsis.”
Our thoughts are with the Busch family during this difficult time.
This story was originally published by The Spun on May 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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