Kyle Busch’s three-year-old daughter, Lennix Key, has shifted her childhood affection from Chase Elliott to NASCAR driver Shane van Gisbergen, revealing her new “boyfriend” during the Richmond race weekend in 2025. This change, shared by Lennix’s mother, Samantha Busch, captured attention at the event as the little girl eagerly sought out the Kiwi driver on pit road.
Lennix’s Changing Affections Revealed at Richmond
<pLennix Key, often seen with her parents Kyle and Samantha Busch at racing events, had previously declared Chase Elliott as her boyfriend in early 2024. Samantha Busch shared a lighthearted video where Lennix identified Chase Elliott as her special someone, mentioning that Elliott sometimes spoke with her. However, during the recent Richmond weekend, Lennix’s focus shifted dramatically. While walking briskly through the pit road, she expressed an urgent desire to see Shane van Gisbergen, also known as SVG.
Samantha Busch asked Lennix whom she was rushing to meet. Without hesitation, Lennix confirmed it was SVG. This surprised her mother, who reminded her that just months ago, Chase Elliott had been the chosen boyfriend. Encouraging Lennix’s new affection, Samantha prompted her to tell SVG about her feelings.
“Who are you gonna go see?
Lennix: SVG
Samantha: Wait I thought we liked Chase Elliott. It’s SVG this week? Okay alright, let’s go tell him. Are you gonna tell him he’s your new boyfriend?”
—Samantha Busch, shared on Instagram Stories
Though Lennix openly acknowledged her new crush, she exhibited some shyness about directly telling SVG. Instead, she asked her mother to take on the role of messenger, demonstrating the innocence of a child navigating newfound admiration.
“Yes….. No, you tell him.”
—Lennix Key
Family Moment with Shane van Gisbergen at Richmond
After the Richmond race, Samantha and Lennix had a chance to confront Shane van Gisbergen in person. Van Gisbergen had an impressive run, finishing 14th—the best of his NASCAR oval circuit career to date. The positive result seemed to boost his spirits, making Lennix’s confession a timely and heartwarming moment.
Samantha informed van Gisbergen about Lennix’s change of heart, saying the little girl had moved on from Chase Elliott and declared SVG as her new boyfriend. She joked that Lennix had already spread the news, implying the driver had won her affection.
“She dumped Chase Elliott and SVG’s her new boyfriend. She told everybody so you won and now you’re her new boyfriend if you didn’t know.”
—Samantha Busch after the Richmond race
The exchange ended with a high-five and a hug, underscoring the lighthearted family atmosphere amid the competitive racing environment. Lennix’s choice seemed to bring good luck, as Shane continues to impress this season.
Implications for Racing and Family Dynamics
Shane van Gisbergen has rapidly established himself as a leading contender in the 2025 NASCAR season, tying with Denny Hamlin for the most wins. Lennix’s newfound admiration arguably symbolizes a rallying charm for the driver, adding a personal, endearing layer to the intense competition.
For Kyle Busch, the Richmond weekend was less successful, as he was involved in a major 12-car pileup, earning the nickname “wrecking ball” from fans and commentators. In contrast, Lennix’s cheerful interactions with SVG highlighted a joyful family moment during a challenging race.
Meanwhile, losing Lennix’s childhood “boyfriend” title could be a blow to Chase Elliott’s morale, as he endured his first Did Not Finish (DNF) of the 2025 season shortly afterward. This dynamic showcases how even lighthearted personal stories in the NASCAR community can intertwine with on-track performances.
As the season progresses, Kyle Busch’s daughter Lennix will undoubtedly continue to charm racing fans, and her evolving affections may become an endearing subplot alongside high-stakes competition. Observers will watch closely to see if her loyalty to SVG endures or if the title of “new boyfriend” changes hands once again.
