Kyle Busch misses Coca-Cola 600 after hospitalisation for severe illness

NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch will miss Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway after being admitted to hospital with a severe illness.

The 41-year-old was also scheduled to compete in the weekend’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event prior to his unexpected medical emergency.

Austin Hill steps in as substitute

Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has confirmed that Austin Hill will replace the recovering driver in the No. 8 Chevrolet for the Cup race.

Hill currently drives the No. 21 entry for the organisation in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

“Kyle Busch’s health is our upmost priority and he and his family have the full resources of RCR behind them,” an official team statement read.

The racing team emphasised that their regular driver remains an integral part of the organisation and wished him a safe, speedy recovery.

Family requests privacy

Details surrounding the specific nature of the medical condition have not been disclosed by representatives.

“Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization,” his family announced via social media.

The statement confirmed he is currently undergoing treatment and will halt all scheduled racing activities for the weekend.

“We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation,” the family added.

The veteran racer currently sits 24th in the Cup Series standings following the opening 12 events of the season.