Kurt Busch, recently inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, has received significant recognition from Denny Hamlin, former co-owner of NASCAR Cup Series team 23XI Racing. Hamlin emphasized Busch’s essential contributions to establishing the team’s No. 45 car, a vital part of Michael Jordan’s long-term vision for the organization.
Busch’s Hall of Fame induction, achieved on his first ballot, sparked widespread tributes within the racing community. For Hamlin, however, the honor served as a reflection of Busch’s foundational role in bringing 23XI Racing’s ambitious project to life.
How Busch’s Driving Versatility and Leadership Boosted 23XI Racing
23XI Racing, co-founded by Hamlin and basketball legend Michael Jordan, entered NASCAR’s top series as a fresh and innovative competitor. Busch, a 2004 NASCAR Cup champion known for his ability to excel across various vehicles, was instrumental in launching the team’s second entry.
In an interview with reporter Peter Stratta after Busch’s induction announcement, Hamlin remarked,
“It’s an awesome honor for Kurt, certainly, on his first try. It’s fantastic, and certainly he won in pretty much everything he got in. And it reminded me a lot of Tony Stewart. His ability to pretty much drive anything.”
Hamlin stressed that Busch’s role was far more than temporary, describing him as a leader who shaped the team’s foundation early on.
Emphasizing Busch’s impact, Hamlin shared,
“Obviously, got that 45 team off the ground and kind of laid the groundwork of, you know, our cars needed to make speed and winning. Not many attempts for us on a new team were fantastic and essentially got that team running really well right before Tyler [Reddick] got put in there.”
Busch’s Lasting Legacy in 23XI Racing’s Progress and Future
During his only full season driving the No. 45 car, Busch secured a win at Kansas, highlighting his competitiveness. Although a severe concussion ended his full-time racing career, his early efforts established a strong platform for 23XI Racing.
Today, Tyler Reddick occupies the driver’s seat for the team, continuing Busch’s legacy of competitiveness and success. Hamlin made clear that Busch was the first to demonstrate a new NASCAR team’s ability to win right from the start.
Hamlin regards Busch’s Hall of Fame induction as a formal recognition of what has long been evident: Busch’s determination, versatility, and skill were fundamental in transforming Michael Jordan’s NASCAR aspirations into a winning reality.
