President Donald Trump paid tribute Friday to NASCAR star Kyle Busch following the racing champion’s sudden death at age 41, praising his impact on the sport and its fans.
Trump described Busch as “a true talent” who loved NASCAR and his fans. He celebrated Busch’s accomplishments during a career that made him one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR history.
“Kyle was a WINNER!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “He was a two-time Cup Champion, and holds the All-Time Record for WINS in NASCAR’s Top Three series.”
Busch’s death was announced on Thursday after he was hospitalized with what his family and racing team described as “a severe illness.”
Busch was testing in the Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord on Wednesday when he became unresponsive and was transported to a hospital in Charlotte, several people familiar with the situation told The Associated Press.
Busch experienced shortness of breath, felt he was overheating, and was coughing up blood the day before his death, according to a 911 call obtained by the AP on Friday.
His exact cause of death has not been publicly released.
An in memoriam photo of former driver Kyle Busch is displayed on the video board of the backstretch at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Friday, May 22, 2026, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley)
Busch won titles in 2015 and 2019 and amassed 234 victories across NASCAR’s top three national series — the most in the sport’s modern era. He also captured another Truck Series victory just days before his death.
Trump also expressed condolences to Busch’s wife, Samantha, and the couple’s two children. He referenced Samantha Busch’s advocacy work related to in vitro fertilization, noting she visited the White House last October.
“She truly loved Kyle,” Trump wrote. “Rest in Peace Kyle Busch. You will always be a LEGEND!”
Vice President JD Vance also took to social media to honor Busch.
“I had the opportunity to meet Kyle, one of NASCAR’s greatest racers, on the campaign trail in 2024,” Vance said. “Usha and I are praying for him and his family. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.”
_________________
JOIN THE CONVERSATION (1)
EDITOR’S NOTE: The Associated Press contributed to this report.