NASCAR Star Kyle Busch Hospitalized With 'Severe Illness'

Kyle Busch, the longtime NASCAR Cup Series star, will not be competing at this weekend's Coca-Cola 600.

The 41-year-old NASCAR Cup Series driver is in the hospital. Busch has been hospitalized with a severe illness. The longtime NASCAR star is undergoing treatment and it's unclear when he will make his return.

The Busch family released a statement on his status on Thursday morning, May 21.

"Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization. He is currently undergoing treatment and will not compete in any of his scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation," the family announced.

Busch, who drives the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Richard Childress Racing, is one of the longest-tenured drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series.

He will certainly be missed this weekend. NASCAR fans are hoping that everything is OK with him.

NASCAR fans are sending their prayers on Thursday

"Prayers for KB and family!!!" one fan wrote.

"He wasn't feeling right since Watkins Glen. Hopefully it's a quick recovery!" another shared.

"Oh man, it must be serious. Hoping Kyle has a speedy recovery🙏🏻," one fan added.

"Sending prayers and positive thoughts," one fan added.

Busch was heard calling for a doctor during a May 10 race earlier this season. He appeared to be in serious pain at the Go Bowling At The Glen race on May 10.

"In an even & measured voice Kyle Busch asked his team to find Dr. William Heisel and that he will need him after the race. Dr. Heisel has extensive work with teams, drivers and pit crew members," Dustin Long reported.

"Busch did not elaborate on the radio for why he is making the request."

The NASCAR Cup Series driver then received medical attention following the race. We certainly hope that everything turns out OK.

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This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 7:33 AM.