Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch died from "complications" after "severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis," his family has confirmed.
Kyle, 41, was widely regarded as one of the greatest and most fiercely competitive drivers in the sport’s history, and he passed away on Thursday, May 21, hours after being hospitalized.
© Getty Images"The medical evaluation provided to the Busch Family concluded that severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications," Busch's family said in a statement, per ESPN. "The Family asks for continued understanding and privacy during this difficult time."
People magazine had previously obtained audio from a 911 call made around 5:30 p.m. local time on May 20. The audio revealed that Kyle had been found lying on the bathroom floor "coughing up blood".
"I've got an individual that's [got] shortness of breath, very hot, thinks he's going to pass out, and he's producing a little bit of blood, coughing up some blood," the caller told the operator. "He is awake. He's awake on the bathroom floor right now."
© Getty ImagesThe call came 11 days after he finished a race at Watkins Glen International was was heard over the radio asking his team to have a doctor ready because he was going to "need a shot."
The Associated Press also reported that during the television broadcast, it was revealed the father-of-four was struggling with a sinus cold that was exacerbated by the "intense G-forces and elevation changes".
© Getty ImagesIn an emotional statement shared on behalf of Kyle’s family and Richard Childress Racing, NASCAR described the driver as "a rare talent" and "a future Hall of Famer."
"Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch," the statement read.
"A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans."
"Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR's highest level and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series," it continued. "His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’"
© Getty ImagesBorn in Las Vegas, Nevada, Kyle became one of the most recognisable faces in American motorsport, earning a reputation for his relentless determination, outspoken personality and remarkable consistency behind the wheel.
Over the course of his 24-year career, he competed in over 760 races and amassed an astonishing 234 wins across NASCAR’s three national series, more than any other driver in history.
Kyle is survived by his wife, Samantha Busch, and the couple’s two children, Brexton, 11, and Lennix, four.
