Brexton Busch, the 11-year-old son of Kyle Busch, seems determined to keep his father’s legacy alive.
Kyle Busch sadly passed away on May 21 at the age of 41. The two-time Cup Series champion suffered from severe pneumonia that progressed into sepsis. According to multiple reports, he was found unresponsive 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.”
Apr 20, 2024; Talladega, Alabama, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch (8) waits by his car on pit road during qualifying for the Geico 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports© John David Mercer-Imagn Images
Although the Busch family must be dealing with an incredible amount of pain right now, Brexton is doing his best to make his father proud. On June 2, the young racer was spotted at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He was getting himself prepared for the Cook Out Summer Shootout.
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NASCAR fans immediately sent kind messages to Brexton after seeing him back on the track.
“Wow I can’t believe he’s there,” one fan wrote. “Strong young man.”
“Hell yeah Brexton! So happy to see you out there doing what you love and what you shared with your dad! This is probably the best therapy for you. We’re all with you buddy! Stay strong! Sending prayers and love,” another fan said. “I’m glad he’s back doing what he and his dad loved.”
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“That kids gonna enter NASCAR with millions of fans day one if he chooses to stay on this path,” a fan declared.
There’s a seat in NASCAR waiting for Brexton.
Richard Childress Racing has already announced that Kyle Busch’s No. 8 car will be suspended until Brexton is ready to take over.
“Richard Childress Racing has elected to suspend use of the No. 8 and will run the No. 33 at Charlotte Motor Speedway and beyond. Kyle Busch was instrumental in the design of RCR’s stylized No. 8 and it has become synonymous with Kyle and an important symbol for his fans and the NASCAR industry. No one can carry it forward to the level that he did. The No. 8 is reserved and ready for Brexton Busch when he is ready to go NASCAR racing.”
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NASCAR fans are certainly hoping Brexton will eventually compete in the Cup Series just like his father did.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Jun 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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