Photo: Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
Brexton Busch, the 11-year-old son of the late NASCAR legend Kyle Busch, returned to the racetrack Monday (June 8) at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Competing in the Young Lions division of the CookOut Summer Shootout, Brexton drove a neon green car sporting the number 18—his father's iconic number—finishing sixth in the 25-lap race.
This event marked Brexton's first race since his father's unexpected death on May 21 due to complications from pneumonia. Brexton showcased his racing skills, starting in 13th place and maneuvering his way to sixth. The race, part of a series that features young drivers in 1930s-style cars, is known for nurturing future NASCAR stars.
Brexton has been racing since he was six and achieved 48 victories last year across various racing disciplines. His return to racing came just hours after a private memorial service for his father, underscoring his resilience and passion for the sport. USA Today reported that Brexton's car also featured the number 51, a nod to his father's legacy in the Truck Series.
The Busch family has a storied history in NASCAR, with Kyle Busch being a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and the all-time leader in combined victories across NASCAR's top three national touring series. His sudden passing sent shockwaves through the racing community, and tributes have continued to pour in, including from fellow drivers like Denny Hamlin.
Richard Childress, Kyle Busch's team owner, announced that the stylized No. 8, which Kyle designed, is reserved for Brexton should he decide to pursue a career in NASCAR. The Fourth Turn reported Childress's commitment to supporting Brexton's future, emphasizing the importance of respecting his journey without adding pressure.