NASCAR great Kyle Busch dies suddenly aged 41

NASCAR icon Kyle Busch has died at the age of 41, it has been confirmed.

The American was rushed to hospital with a ‘serious illness’ on Thursday ahead of the Coca-Cola 600, with Austin Hill named to step in as his replacement for the race.

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Busch’s untimely passing was confirmed later in the day.

“We are saddened and heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup champion and one of our sport’s greatest and fiercest drivers. He was 41 years old,” a statement from NASCAR read.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and the entire motorsports community.”

‘Generational talent’

A joint statement from the Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR then followed as it read: “Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch.

“A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along only once in a generation.

“He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans.

“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.

“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.”

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