Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, faces persistent questions about his future performance as he enters his 22nd full-time season. Despite his remarkable record, recent seasons have underscored the Kyle Busch career struggles that cast uncertainty over his return to the top of NASCAR.
An Uncertain Chapter in the Cup Series
At age 40, Busch stands as one of the most accomplished drivers in the series with 63 career victories. However, he has not claimed a race win in the past 93 starts, with his last Cup Series triumph occurring at Gateway in June 2023. The drought has coincided with his absence from the playoffs for two consecutive seasons—a career first for Busch.
Driving for Richard Childress Racing (RCR), an organization renowned for success in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series but unable to sustain momentum in the Cup Series, Busch finds himself in unfamiliar territory. His partnership with RCR, while resulting in three wins in 2023, has yet to deliver consistent speed or reliability needed to compete with dominant teams like Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet’s flag bearer in the garage.
Challenges Facing a Comeback
The factors impacting Busch’s twilight years are largely beyond his control. Diminishing performance from RCR, which has not been a serious Cup Series contender since Kevin Harvick’s era over a decade ago, has contributed to his struggles. Few top teams are likely to offer Busch a new opportunity as the perception of his skills decline with time.
Up-and-coming organizations add further pressure. Trackhouse Racing, with drivers like Ross Chastain, Shane van Gisbergen, and rising star Connor Zilisch, is gathering momentum and talent. In contrast, RCR continues to grapple with a lack of pace, and there appears to be no imminent solution to its ongoing challenges.
Signs Busch Could Still Rebound
Despite setbacks, Busch’s talent and determination remain visible. He delivered his strongest 2025 showing by leading 42 laps at Circuit of the Americas, demonstrating he can remain competitive when circumstances align. Parallel to his Cup Series challenges, Busch has showcased his driving ability elsewhere, capturing three Craftsman Truck Series wins in 10 starts over the past two years.
Still, another season mirroring recent struggles could mark the conclusion of Busch’s storied time at the elite level. His legacy as a race winner and champion is secure, but recapturing the relentless form that once defined him remains elusive. His journey draws parallels with Mark Martin, another respected veteran from his region and a NASCAR Hall of Famer.
The Road Ahead for a NASCAR Veteran
The coming seasons will determine whether Busch can overcome the mounting obstacles that define the latest stage of his career. His partnership with RCR, ongoing pursuit of Cup Series victories, and the intensifying competition from younger stars create a turbulent and emotional landscape.
As the NASCAR community reflects on the highs and lows of the Kyle Busch career struggles, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see if one of the sport’s fiercest competitors can engineer a resurgence and add to his remarkable legacy.
