Richard Childress Racing has spent much of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season honoring Kyle Busch’s legacy following his death in May. Ahead of this weekend’s race at Richmond Raceway, the organization unveiled what may be its most personal tribute yet.
Austin Hill’s No. 33 Chevrolet will carry Busch’s signature bow celebration across the hood, paying tribute to one of the most recognizable victory celebrations of the late NASCAR star’s Hall of Fame career. The special paint scheme also features Busch’s signature and highlights The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund, the charity he and wife Samantha founded to help couples battling infertility.
Advertisement
The tribute arrives nearly three months after Busch died from complications related to severe pneumonia and sepsis, a loss that stunned the NASCAR community just days after he earned his 69th Craftsman Truck Series victory.
Richard Childress Racing honors one of Kyle Busch’s most recognizable traditions
Rather than creating an elaborate memorial design, Richard Childress Racing focused on a symbol that longtime NASCAR fans immediately recognize.
For years, Busch celebrated victories by pretending to tie an oversized bow, a gesture that became one of his signature post-race traditions and one of the defining images of his decorated career.
Advertisement
When unveiling the Richmond paint scheme Monday morning, Richard Childress Racing explained the meaning behind the design in a social media post.
“A bow that meant so much.
❤
This weekend, we honor Kyle with his signature bow featured on the hood. A simple gesture. A lasting legacy.”
The scheme also incorporates Busch’s signature and branding for The Samantha and Kyle Busch Bundle of Joy Fund, ensuring the tribute recognizes not only his accomplishments behind the wheel but also the charitable work he and Samantha built together.
Austin Hill has driven the No. 33 Chevrolet since stepping into Busch’s former ride following his passing, making Richmond another emotional chapter in the organization’s efforts to preserve Busch’s legacy throughout the remainder of the season.
Advertisement
Fans say the Richmond tribute is one of the best yet
The unveiling quickly drew an emotional response from NASCAR fans, many of whom praised Richard Childress Racing for choosing such a meaningful way to remember Busch.
One fan wrote:
“Ahhhhhhhhhhh you got me in tears again!! This is up there as one of the best tributes to Kyle
🥹
🥹
🥹
🥹
Advertisement
“
The reaction reflects how deeply Busch’s legacy continues to resonate throughout the NASCAR community. While victories, championships and records helped define his career, many fans still associate him with the memorable traditions that made him one of the sport’s most recognizable personalities.
Richard Childress Racing has unveiled multiple tributes since Busch’s death, but this latest design stands apart because of its simplicity. By placing the iconic bow front and center, the organization chose a symbol that generations of NASCAR fans instantly recognize.
When Austin Hill rolls onto the Richmond Raceway grid this weekend, Busch’s signature celebration will once again be part of NASCAR’s biggest stage, serving as another reminder that his influence on the sport continues long after his final race.
Read the full article here
