NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch faced overwhelming criticism and retirement demands after a significant crash during the Viva Mexico 250 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City on June 15, 2025. The incident occurred just seven laps into the race, forcing Busch to exit early and igniting frustration among fans who highlight his ongoing struggles and winless streak this season.
Kyle Busch faces retirement calls after Mexico crash as fans grow increasingly impatient with his recent performances and high-profile mistakes. Despite early signs of promise in 2025, his misjudgment on a rain-slicked turn led to a multi-car wreck, fueling calls for the veteran racer to step away from competitive racing.
Early Optimism Surrounding Busch’s 2025 Season Now Overshadowed
The reaction in Mexico City contrasts sharply with Busch’s outlook earlier in the year. Back in February 2023 at Daytona International Speedway, Busch dismissed rumors about retiring, asserting confidently,
“I’ve heard plenty of talk. So, no. I’m turning 40, Denny Hamlin’s out there, he’s turning 44 or 45 – and he’s winning races. So, 37 to about 43, you’re in your prime in NASCAR, actually. I am still right there, I still got plenty in the tank, I’m still ready to go.”
Busch’s belief in his ability and his trust in Richard Childress Racing’s commitment to improve vehicle performance remained unshaken for some time. He remarked that the team was
“working to get our Chevrolets back up front,”
reflecting a hopeful mindset despite a lack of recent victories. However, the Mexico City crash abruptly undercut that optimism.
Details of the Mexico City Crash and Its Aftermath
During wet track conditions on lap 7, Busch locked up his brakes entering Turn 1, losing control and crashing into Justin Haley, Kyle Larson, and AJ Allmendinger. The impact heavily damaged Busch’s No. 8 car, forcing him to retire from the race.
“It’s pretty well destroyed here, guys, everything in the rear,”
Busch reported over the radio as he assessed the damage.
Both Busch and Larson headed to the garage, but Busch’s car could not be repaired, ending his day early. Additional drivers including Briscoe and Smith were also caught up in the incident. Busch’s spotter, Derek Kneeland, expressed visible frustration by posting several angry emojis on social media following the crash.
Reflecting on the accident, Busch conceded fault and track conditions, saying,
“I don’t know. I went to the brakes and just ice, so maybe it was a little bit too heavy of a brake spike. I just turned around backwards and spun out backwards, and hate it for all the guys that got involved. It’s just like I was just snapped on you. I mean, I was in trouble for a good you know second or two, and then I was like I’m gonna nail some people, so I better turn around backwards and at least try to soften the blow.”
Fan Backlash Intensifies Following Multi-Car Collision
Busch’s crash provoked an outpouring of anger across social media platforms, where fans expressed their discontent both at the event and over his overall performance decline. Many criticized Busch for a pattern of self-inflicted errors, emphasizing his nearly 70-race winless streak that began after his last victory in Gateway in 2023.
One fan bluntly stated,
“It’s time to admit, Kyle Busch is done. 75% of the mistakes made are on him, not the crew or the car.”
Another posted,
“Good grief, Kyle Busch just hang it up, man.”
Some comments were harsher, such as one saying,
“Well you ruined a lot of people’s day you washed up shit for brains,”
reflecting the deep disappointment felt by many followers of the sport.
Criticism also highlighted Busch’s difficulties adapting to the Next Gen car, with one user writing,
“You can ALWAYS rely on Kyle Busch to take himself out in this next gen car.”
These voices indicate that Busch’s recent results have not only frustrated fans but also cast doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level going forward.
Busch’s Recent Performance Trends and Challenges
Although Busch showed some promising moments in the 2025 season with multiple top 10 finishes at Atlanta, Phoenix, COTA, and Michigan, he has yet to secure a win. At COTA, he led for 42 laps but ultimately finished in fifth place, underscoring his inability to close out races successfully. His average finish of roughly 16.7 places him outside the usual competitive range expected of a driver of his caliber.
The mounting pressure from poor results and repeated errors has put Busch’s playoff prospects in jeopardy. With the points battle tightening, Busch must avoid further mistakes if he hopes to make a significant impact in the remainder of the season. Failure to do so risks a repeat of last year’s disappointing outcomes for his No. 8 Chevrolet team.
Richard Childress Racing’s Continued Support Reflects Confidence in Busch
Despite the growing calls for retirement and his recent struggles, Richard Childress Racing reaffirmed their commitment to Busch by extending his contract through 2026. Team owner Richard Childress emphasized his faith in Busch’s abilities and value to the sport, stating,
“Kyle is a tremendous racer and ambassador of the sport for our fans and partners. Everyone at RCR is committed to putting the pieces in place to enhance the competition side of our business.”
Busch echoed this sentiment, expressing his dedication to the team and future goals:
“I feel like my family, and I have found a home at RCR, and it means a lot that Richard continues to put his trust into me. My chapter at RCR is not yet complete, and I know we are building something special here. I remain focused on adding more wins and a championship to our collective resumes.”
Despite the resolve officially displayed, growing fan dissatisfaction and ongoing on-track incidents suggest Busch’s position remains precarious, raising questions about how much longer he can realistically compete at a top level.
Social Media Responds: Fans Demand Busch Step Away
The turbulent reaction online highlights a harsh mood among supporters, with many demanding that Busch retire to avoid further negative impacts on races and other competitors. Comments such as
“Is Kyle Busch’s time in NASCAR over, or can he still silence his critics with a win?”
show the uncertainty surrounding his future.
With Busch’s recent performances falling short of expectations, and his mistakes directly affecting contenders like Kyle Larson and AJ Allmendinger, the pressure intensifies. Fans suggest that Busch’s continued presence might hamper chances for new talent and overall competition within the NASCAR Cup Series.
Future Outlook: Can Busch Rebound or Is Retirement Inevitable?
Kyle Busch’s recent missteps and the fan backlash illustrate the fine line veteran drivers walk between competitive relevance and fading performance. While his contract and team support provide stability, Busch must find a way to overcome current challenges and regain winning form if he intends to silence critics and extend his legacy.
The growing tension among fans and the escalating demands for his retirement underscore the stakes involved. Busch’s ability to adapt, avoid errors, and deliver results in upcoming races will likely determine whether he remains a fixture in NASCAR or finally steps aside. With the points battle intensifying, every race becomes a test not only of skill but also of his future in the sport.
