Richard Childress Mourns Loss of Kyle Busch, Compares to Dale Earnhardt’s Passing

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Richard Childress Mourns Loss of Kyle Busch, Compares to Dale Earnhardt’s Passing

OBBM Network Editorial Staff

June 7, 2026

Richard Childress Mourns Loss Of Kyle Busch Compares To Dale Earnhardt S Passing

Richard Childress, the seasoned owner of Richard Childress Racing, faced the media at Michigan International Speedway to discuss the sudden passing of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch. Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, died on May 21 after severe pneumonia led to sepsis, a loss that Childress compares to the tragic death of Dale Earnhardt in 2001.

Childress Reflects on Busch’s Legacy

Childress, who has experienced the pain of losing a top driver before, expressed his sorrow for Busch’s family and the racing team. ‘You lose two of the greatest drivers that’s ever driven a car in NASCAR and to have to go through it again,’ he said, acknowledging the profound impact on the team and himself.

Busch, who was in a contract year, had shown promise with a season-best eighth-place finish at Watkins Glen, following a crew chief change. Childress revealed that there were positive discussions about Busch returning to the No. 8 Chevrolet for another season. ‘He said, “You give me cars like you gave me the last three weeks, I will make The Chase this year,”‘ Childress recounted, highlighting Busch’s confidence and determination.

Future Plans for Richard Childress Racing

In the wake of Busch’s passing, Austin Hill has taken over the driving duties for Busch’s car, with Childress confirming Hill will continue for the remainder of the season. The team is also preserving the No. 8 for Busch’s 11-year-old son, Brexton, should he pursue a career in NASCAR.

Childress fondly remembered hunting trips with Kyle and Brexton Busch, and watching them race together at a dirt track in North Carolina. He emphasized the importance of family in the sport, reflecting on the future plans Kyle had for his son and family.

As Childress leans on his grandsons Austin and Ty Dillon, along with RCR president Mike Verlander and team executive Mike Dillon, he remains committed to honoring Busch’s legacy. Childress believes Busch deserves immediate induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, recognizing him as one of the greatest race drivers in history.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.