Richard Childress Racing retires Kyle Busch’s car for son Brexton

Richard Childress Racing is temporarily retiring Kyle Busch’s number eight car following the driver’s sudden death on Thursday, preserving the seat until his 11-year-old son Brexton is ready to race.

The NASCAR Cup Series team will instead field the number 33 car for the foreseeable future, beginning at Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600.

Austin Hill has been drafted in to replace the two-time champion at Charlotte Motor Speedway for the longest race of the season.

The cause of the 41-year-old’s unexpected passing earlier this week has not yet been disclosed.

A future in the family name

The late driver played a crucial role in designing his vehicle’s stylised livery, which became universally recognised by motorsport fans.

A statement from the organisation explained that nobody else could carry the famous brand forward to the same elite level.

“The No. 8 is reserved and ready for Brexton Busch when he is ready to go NASCAR racing.”

Brexton is already forging his own successful path in the sport, securing 48 victories across various racing disciplines in 2024 alone.

The third-generation prodigy also claimed his first Golden Driller trophy last year by winning the prestigious Tulsa Shootout Junior Sprint Championship.

Historical precedent at RCR

This poignant decision mirrors the team’s actions following the tragic death of Dale Earnhardt at the 2001 Daytona 500.

On that occasion, the famous black number three was immediately replaced by a white number 29 car.

It took 13 years for the original number to return to the track, finally being revived in 2014 for team owner Richard Childress’ grandson, Austin Dillon.