StarKist® and the Busch Family Shift into High Gear in 2026

As the NASCAR Season Kicks Off at Daytona, Fuel Good, Feel Good Takes Center Stage with High-Quality, Ready-to-Eat Protein for Performance and Everyday Wins

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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StarKist Co. has announced the second year of its partnership with NASCAR champion Kyle Busch, wellness advocate Samantha Busch, and youth racer Brexton Busch. The partnership highlights how the Busch family integrates StarKist's high-quality protein products into their fast-paced routines, from race weekends to busy days at home. As the NASCAR season kicks off at the Daytona 500, StarKist reinforces its belief that when you fuel good, you feel good and that choosing lean protein helps people feel their best and stay ready for whatever's next.

Why it matters

The Busch family represents the next generation of motorsports, and their partnership with StarKist showcases how the brand's convenient, ready-to-eat protein options can fuel active, high-performance lifestyles. This collaboration highlights the importance of accessible, nutritious fuel for both professional athletes and busy families alike.

The details

Building on a successful first year, the 2026 partnership will feature the Busch family incorporating StarKist's Tuna, Chicken, and Salmon Creations® pouches into their routines. These products provide lean, high-quality protein in a convenient, ready-to-eat format that fits seamlessly into their demanding schedules. Samantha Busch will also continue to share how StarKist supports her fast-paced lifestyle as a business owner, podcast host, and mom.

  • The NASCAR season kicks off at the Daytona 500 in 2026.

The players

StarKist Co.

An American food company that produces canned tuna, salmon, and other seafood products. StarKist is a subsidiary of Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.

Kyle Busch

A two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and the winningest driver in NASCAR history.

Samantha Busch

A best-selling author, fitness and wellness influencer, business owner, and champion of philanthropy who is also an advocate for fighting infertility.

Brexton Busch

A rising young motorsports driver who has amassed 150 wins across multiple racing disciplines and has over 300K social media followers at just 10 years old.

Michael Merritt Jr.

The Vice President and Head of Marketing & Innovation at StarKist.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be another great year with our friends at StarKist. I grew up with the brand, and I'm a big fan. Daytona sets the tone for a long season with nonstop momentum, and racing 500 miles requires serious focus and energy behind the wheel. I never slow down, so I rely on StarKist's great-tasting, high-quality lean protein to stay fueled and focused. Their convenient tuna, chicken, and salmon pouches fit seamlessly into my routine and help power everything from race-day performance to everyday family life.”

— Kyle Busch (StarKist Co.)

“Between running my business, hosting my podcast, being a mom, and keeping up with the boys' nonstop racing schedule and Lennix's energetic personality, life moves fast. I prioritize protein at every meal to help keep me energized and feeling my best. StarKist is a convenient protein choice I feel good about eating and serving to my family. With a variety of ready-to-eat, delicious options, it fits seamlessly into our fast-paced lifestyle — it's truly fuel that helps us feel good, no matter how busy life gets.”

— Samantha Busch (StarKist Co.)

What’s next

The NASCAR season will kick off at the Daytona 500 in 2026, setting the tone for the Busch family's continued partnership with StarKist.

The takeaway

This partnership showcases how a leading food brand like StarKist can effectively align with a high-profile, dynamic family like the Busches to promote the importance of accessible, nutritious protein for fueling active, fast-paced lifestyles. The collaboration highlights StarKist's commitment to providing convenient, ready-to-eat options that support both professional athletes and busy families in achieving their performance and wellness goals.