Few have had a career as decorated as the late Kyle Busch’s. He set multiple records and became one of NASCAR’s most recognizable drivers. After helping shape the sports modern era for nearly two decades, the US government has recognized his great legacy.

The former two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion died on May 21 after being hospitalized for "severe illness." It was later confirmed by the family that it was pneumonia that progressed into sepsis.

On Thursday, the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution, a resolution agreed upon by both parties led by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). An excerpt from the resolution read:

"Busch earned the respect of both opposing drivers and fans through his commitment to providing thrilling entertainment to NASCAR crowds with his performative driving style. He embraced his role as a champion driver and devoted father, proudly mentored and coached his son, Brexton, who began his own journey in motorsports, and helped to foster the passion for racing in the next generation."

Kyle Busch had one of the most successful NASCAR careers across all three divisions of the sport, with a total of 234 wins. It included 63 Cup wins, 69 Truck wins, and 102 O'Reilly wins.

Beyond the track, Busch also took on the role of his son Brexton's mentor. He coached his son through his junior career, including Late Model races.

However, this is not the first time that the former Richard Childress Racing driver has been honored by the US government.

Kyle Busch honored in the United States House of Representatives

On June 9, Congressman Addison McDowell paid his respects to the late 41-year-old NASCAR driver. Congressman McDowell took the floor of the United States House of Representatives to pay his tribute.

He opened his address to the house by saying:

"I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Kyle Busch, a fierce competitor, a legendary race car driver, and most importantly, a great man."

McDowell continued his address by talking about the many roles Kyle Busch took on. He further spoke about one of Busch’s biggest achievements, which was winning the Cup Series championship in 2015 after missing the first 11 races of the season. 'Rowdy' became the only driver to do so.

"Kyle expected that if he was behind the wheel of a car, he should win. He had every right to believe that because he was that good," McDowell added. 

The tributes in the United States House of Representatives and the US Senate reflect on the lasting legacy that Kyle Busch has left behind.

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Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Yash Kotak