“Another childhood hero of mine steps away”- Fans in tears as Kurt Busch officially retires from the NASCAR Cup Series

The talk of the town has been Kurt Busch, as the 2004 Cup champion announced his retirement from NASCAR on Saturday. In the video he shared on X (Formerly known as Twitter), he also explained his decision. Last season, the 45-year-old suffered a concussion during a session at Pocono and was forced to sit out for the rest of the year. 

It was announced that Busch would not return as a full-time driver to 23XI Racing in October 2022. As a result, Tyler Reddick switched to the team from Richard Childress Racing in 2023. The 23XI Racing co-owner, Denny Hamlin, left the door open for Kurt Busch, hoping he would drive for the team again. Things did not change for the better, as Busch’s health did not allow him to continue racing. 

The 45-year-old said in the video that sometimes father time can catch up to a person’s dreams. Busch revealed that he and his doctors concluded there were too many obstacles to overcome and return to full health during his recovery. So, after 23 years of racing and living his dream, Busch officially announced his retirement from the NASCAR Cup Series competition. 

Related: REVEALED: The real reason why 2004 champion Kurt Busch announced retirement from NASCAR Cup Series

Here is how the NASCAR fans reacted to Kurt Busch’s retirement 

NASCAR fans were so emotional after Kurt Busch’s announcement. They expressed their feelings in his comment section. One user said, “Another childhood hero of mine steps away, thank you, Kurt.” Fans thanked Busch for the memories on track and said, “Thanks for the iconic moments you sprinkled into my childhood, Kurt. And for showing me that people are not always what they seem, that they grow.” There is no doubt that Busch inspired many people. 

It is safe to say some fans teared up, as it is never easy to bid farewell to someone, especially if it’s their favorite driver. “Ain’t gonna lie… that brought tears to my eyes. As a Kurt fan, since I was 14 in 2001, I knew this day would come. Thank you Kurt for all the great memories!” and “Kurt, I’m about to cry man, don’t do this to me,” were two comments. Take a look at more below. 

NASCAR fans filled Kurt Busch’s comment section with lovely and emotional messages. Some fans thanked him for everything, some confessed they were in tears and said they would miss him. They spoke about the highs and lows of Busch’s career and wished him a happy retirement. The former Cup champion will continue attending races and serve as a mentor for Reddick and Bubba Wallace in 23XI Racing. Hence, his fans have an opportunity to meet and wish him well. 

In case you missed it:

• Bubba Wallace is over the moon as he earns his maiden Cup playoff surviving ‘emotional rollercoaster’
• WATCH: Ryan Preece’s car goes airborne violently and flips ten times in a terrifying Daytona crash

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