Nearly a month after Greg Biffle’s passing, the NASCAR community continues to honor his memory, with Kyle Busch reflecting on their unique bond. Busch, a 19-time Cup Series winner, cherishes not just Biffle’s racing accomplishments but particularly the respect and sportsmanship Biffle exhibited on the track—qualities Busch feels are fading in contemporary NASCAR.
Busch recalled a memorable moment at Darlington, explaining how Biffle’s approach to competition stood out amid today’s aggressive racing environment.
“I remember running into him one time at Darlington off of two. I moved him out of the way, I think it was for the lead. And I let him back in. Then I redid it to do it the clean way. Those days are gone; I don’t think you see much of that these days. But after the race is over, he puts his arm around me, and he’s like, ‘Do you mean to do that?’ And I’m like, ‘No, I’m sorry. That’s why I let you back by.’ He’s like, ‘I know, I know,'”
Kyle Busch shared during a recent press conference, emphasizing how Biffle’s competitive integrity was rare among today’s drivers.
Current NASCAR Culture Compared to Biffle’s Era
While Busch has faced numerous conflicts in recent years—including a well-publicized altercation with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at the 2024 All-Star Race and handling provocation from Carson Hocevar—he expresses concern over the current attitude of many young drivers. Unlike the respectful demeanor Biffle embodied, many younger racers show little remorse or sportsmanship after on-track incidents.
Despite his amicable nature, Biffle was no stranger to on-track disputes. Notably, he struggled with Boris Said in 2011 following a controversial finish at Watkins Glen, and in 2002, he was involved in a heated altercation with Kevin Harvick at Bristol, where tempers flared but no physical harm occurred.
Busch noted that even through these tense moments, Biffle’s true character remained intact.
“Any crashes will kill your championship run”
— Peter Stratta, via Twitter
This shared insight into racing strategy underscores the focus both drivers maintained on long-term success rather than short-term confrontations.
Friendship Beyond the Track and Shared Passions
Kyle Busch highlighted how his friendship with Greg Biffle extended beyond racing. Their mutual interest in off-road activities, especially excursions to sand dunes, strengthened their relationship.
“Myself and Greg, we had a really fun relationship; it was really cool. We would go to the sand dunes and stuff like that. He had a big passion for all of that. And he kind of got me hooked in it when we were doing the sand cars and the side-by-sides and stuff. So we spent a lot of time out there. Before Brexton started racing, we were out there once or twice a year out at his compound or Ron Pratt’s compound or you know, somewhere,”
Busch’s words paint a picture of a close friendship built around shared hobbies and family moments, highlighting the personal side of the NASCAR legend often unseen by fans.
Remembering Greg Biffle’s Legacy Through Tribute and Friendship
Garrett Mitchell, known widely as Cleetus McFarland, was among Biffle’s close friends, with their bond rooted in both racing and humanitarian efforts during Hurricane Helene in 2024. Tragically, Biffle was en route to meet McFarland before his fatal flight accident.
In tribute, McFarland incorporated a special decal bearing the phrase “Be Like Biff” on his No. 30 Rette Jones Racing Ford during the 2026 ARCA test at Daytona. This homage highlights Biffle’s example both on and off the track, symbolizing his generous spirit and community focus.
McFarland, who began competing in the ARCA Menards Series in 2025, aspires to race in the Daytona 500—the same legendary event Biffle participated in fifteen times. Carrying forward Biffle’s legacy, McFarland’s tribute reflects the profound influence Biffle had on those around him.
Impact of Greg Biffle’s Passing on the NASCAR Community
The NASCAR garage still feels the weight of Biffle’s untimely death. Drivers and fans alike mourn the loss of a man who combined fierce competitiveness with genuine kindness. His approach to racing and life set a standard many feel is missing from today’s sport.
Kyle Busch’s recollections emphasize not only the void left by Biffle’s passing but also call attention to the changes in NASCAR’s culture over recent years. Through remembrance and tribute, the NASCAR community aims to preserve Biffle’s memory and the values he represented while inspiring a renewed sense of respect among drivers, especially younger ones.
.@KyleBusch gave his thoughts on NASCAR’s new/old format, testing at @NWBSpeedway, and his friendship with Greg Biffle.
“Any crashes will kill your championship run”#NASCAR pic.twitter.com/HGlnHnAQOh
— Peter Stratta (@peterstratta) January 13, 2026
