The world of motorsports will pay tribute to the late NASCAR legend Kyle Busch by featuring his iconic No. 18 in the upcoming Indianapolis 500. Dale Coyne Racing, which runs the No. 18 Honda driven by Romain Grosjean, will display the number that Busch famously used during his successful tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series.

A Fitting Tribute

Kyle Busch, who passed away at the age of 41, was a revered figure in NASCAR and beyond. His association with the No. 18 car, particularly during his championship seasons, left a lasting impression on fans and fellow racers alike. The decision to honor him in this way was initiated by Fox Sports IndyCar commentator Townsend Bell and required collaboration with Joe Gibbs Racing, the team with which Busch achieved significant success.

Although Busch never competed in the Indy 500 or the IndyCar Series, his achievements at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in NASCAR are well-remembered. His brother, Kurt Busch, attempted the challenging feat of racing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day back in 2014, further cementing the Busch family’s legacy at the venue.

Race Day Expectations

Romain Grosjean, who will carry the No. 18 in Sunday’s race, is set to start in the 24th position. While this presents a challenging starting point, the unpredictable nature of the Indy 500 means that anything is possible, and fans will be watching closely to see if the tribute car can make its way to Victory Lane.

This gesture by Dale Coyne Racing not only honors Kyle Busch’s contributions to motorsports but also serves as a reminder of the deep connections and respect that transcend different racing disciplines. As the race approaches, the motorsports community reflects on Busch’s legacy and the indelible mark he left on the sport.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.