In a discussion with The Athletic, NASCAR veteran Kyle Busch addressed rampant criticism from fans labeling him as “washed-up” following an extended winless streak.
As his performance issues continued into the 2024 season, Busch took the opportunity to defend his long career, reiterating just how difficult it is to continue to perform at such a high level in NASCAR. Despite the downturn in results, Busch took aim at detractors calling for his retirement.
“The only one would be I know how hard it is to be in this sport, to be a driver and compete at a high level and to go out there each week but not quite get the results that you want.
“And to then have fans tell you you’re washed up and you can’t do it and you should retire and you should just get out of it? I’m like, ‘Wow, OK, cool.'”
The conversation around Busch’s performance arises as he and his team at Richard Childress Racing have struggled to sustain the form typically associated with Busch’s lengthy and celebrated career. Known for his success across NASCAR’s three major series, he transitioned to RCR in 2023 after a 14-year stint with Joe Gibbs Racing.
His time at RCR has so far been a test of perseverance, despite a strong start to the 2023 season with three victories, including a win at Auto Club Speedway in February, marking a record 19 consecutive seasons with at least one win. However, since that triumph, he has faced challenges in maintaining consistency, leading critics to suggest that his prime may be behind him.
“Maybe. Are they right? But you look at the other drivers who haven’t won … and some of the drivers who have won this year have won on situational opportunities. It wasn’t like they were a dominant force or anything; they just kind of backed into one,” he commented.
Despite the personal criticism, he admitted:
“Generally speaking, I probably actually agree a lot of times with the fans. Sometimes they get a little overzealous on some things. But on-track product, commercial times, things like that – I agree with a lot of the stuff they say.”
The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion has enjoyed a storied career, achieving victories across all three principal NASCAR series. His winning legacy includes becoming the youngest driver to win a Cup Series race, a milestone he set at just over 20 years old. His track record of success from the Nationwide Series to holding the most all-time wins in NASCAR’s touring series proves that he is one of the greats.
It’s worth recalling 2015 when, after recovering from injuries early in the season, Busch proceeded to clinch the championship despite that.
