Kyle Busch Struggles to Regain NASCAR Success

The former champion has not won a race in over a year as his career faces uncertainty.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Kyle Busch, a former NASCAR champion, has struggled to find success on the track in recent seasons. At the Daytona 500, Busch started on the pole but finished outside the top 20 after letting off the gas late in the race, citing issues with his car's fuel. Busch's feisty response to his crew chief's questions about the car's performance highlighted the frustration he is facing as he tries to regain his winning form.

Why it matters

Kyle Busch was once one of the most dominant drivers in NASCAR, winning multiple championships and races. However, his recent struggles have raised questions about his future in the sport and whether he can recapture the success that made him a star. Busch's performance at Daytona is the latest example of his difficulties, and it will be closely watched as he tries to turn things around.

The details

Busch was running outside the top 20 in the final laps of the Daytona 500 when he let off the gas and faded to the back of the pack as wrecks up front started to muddle the running order. His crew chief radioed Busch and asked if he slowed because the Chevrolet was out of fuel, to which Busch gave a blunt retort.

  • Busch started the Daytona 500 on the pole position.

The players

Kyle Busch

A former NASCAR champion who has struggled to find success in recent seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Kyle Busch's feisty spirit surfaced late at the end of another empty Daytona 500 for the perennial race loser.”

— Dan Gelston, Author (bakersfield.com)

The takeaway

Kyle Busch's struggles at the Daytona 500 are the latest example of his difficulties in recent seasons, raising questions about his ability to regain the success that made him a NASCAR star. As he tries to turn things around, his performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.