The NASCAR community is still coping with the tragic death of Kyle Busch as the sport continues with its next race this weekend, but the memories of the former champion are still flowing in.
The 41 year old suddenly passed away this week ahead of the Coca-Cola 600, and Busch’s death has left auto racing fans stunned. However, NASCAR will hold its next race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Sunday, which marks the first event without Busch in years.
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MORE: Richard Childress Racing makes major decision on Kyle Busch’s No. 8
Richard Childress Racing made the classy move to effectively retire Busch’s No. 8 car until his son is old enough to compete in NASCAR. Meanwhile, Busch’s car received a makeover for this weekend’s event that includes a new number.
Kyle Busch’s Richard Childress Racing team unloads their car for the Coca-Cola 600.
The number is now 33. The driver is now Austin Hill. A black No. 8 decal sits just below the driver’s side window pic.twitter.com/k1uvtOCWbI
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) May 23, 2026
Several videos at Charlotte’s race track revealed RCR’s crew unloading the newly-painted No. 33 car that Austin Hill is driving. That’s sparking beautiful moments around the venue as other drivers, pit crews and teams pay tribute to Busch.
NASCAR remembers Busch’s incredible legacy
Drivers like Bubba Wallace were spotted visibly emotional during the unveiling of the new race car. Meanwhile, RCR’s other main driver, Austin Dillon, penned a touching tribute to Busch and his family earlier this week.
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The details surrounding Busch’s shocking death are still coming out, but it’s clear that his NASCAR legacy is massive. It’s left a flooding of auto racing fans sharing stories from the lengthy career that Busch had at the pinnacle of the sport.
The NASCAR garage watches in silence, and drivers, crew members are overcome with tears as the No. 33 is unloaded…
No name is displayed on the car. #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/adPNBKqlYB
— Noah Lewis (@Noah_Lewis1) May 23, 2026
Even ESPN personality Pat McAfee made sure to give his own personal tribute to Busch after the tragic news.
MORE: Kyle Busch rival Brad Keselowski’s tribute gets mixed reactions from NASCAR fans
Meanwhile, the two-time Cup Series champion leaves behind a family that includes two children with his wife Samantha. Busch is also the younger brother of Kurt Busch, who previously competed in NASCAR until 2022.
The sports world is remembering Busch’s contributions throughout the weekend, including at the Indianapolis 500. The IndyCar Series weekend is one of the biggest auto racing events of the year and features WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark as the grand marshal.
