Kurt Busch has issued a statement
In July, Kurt Busch spun during qualifying at Pocono Raceway. The car backed into the fence at a high rate of speed and the next day Kurt Busch was pulled from the car due to NASCAR’s concussion protocol.
Watch the Kurt Busch crash video
Any driver involved in a crash where they are unable to drive away is automatically taken to the infield care center for evaluation.
Ty Gibbs has filled in for Busch in the last five races and was already scheduled to race this weekend at Daytona. Daytona is the regular season finale, offering one last chance for a driver to lock into the playoffs.
Earlier this year, the 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion drove to victory lane and he claimed a spot in the 2022 playoffs with the win. NASCAR granted him a waiver to compete in the playoffs despite missing recent races.
Busch will miss the start of the 2022 Playoffs.
However, Kurt Busch himself has redrawn his waiver request. He noted that he wouldn’t be able to compete for a championship this season. With the waiver removed, two cars are now fighting for the remaining playoff spots. (Only 1 was available before Busch removed himself from the playoffs).
23XI Racing stated, “The health and well-being of Kurt Busch continues to be of utmost importance.”
The No. 45 is still competing for the Owners Championship.
Kurt Busch Medical Update: NASCAR driver issues statement (Issued ahead of Watkins Glen)
Kurt Busch comments
“As much as I wanted and hoped to be able to get back in the No. 45 car to make a playoff run with out team, it’s still not the right time for me,” Kurt Busch stated on Thursday.
“In addition to not being cleared to return to racing, I know that I am not ready to be in the car.”
“I respect the sport of NASCAR, my fellow drivers and the fans too much to take up a playoff spot if I know I can’t compete for a championship this season. The decision was not an easy one, but I know it is the right thing to do.”
“I will continue to take time to heal and strengthen as I prepare to be back in the car, and will do all I can to help 23XI continue the success we have had this season.”
Kurt Busch posts medical update; Not cleared to race Richmond (Update ahead of Richmond)
Ty Gibbs comments
“My prayers continue to be with Kurt,” Ty Gibbs stated.
“It’s tough that he’s going to miss the start of the playoffs, but I’ll do the best job I can filling in for him as long as I’m asked to. I know Kurt will be our biggest supporter.”
“I appreciate Michael and Denny giving me this opportunity to fill in and hopefully we can continue to do well as we compete for the Cup Owner’s Championship for 23XI Racing.”
Gibbs added, “My thoughts are with Kurt as he recovers, and I know he will continue to do everything in his power to get better.”
Ty Gibbs spins William Byron at Watkins Glen; Retaliation (Video)
Ty Gibbs
23XI Racing Results
Track | Results
Pocono Raceway
16th
Indianapolis Road Course
17th
Michigan International Speedway
10th
Richmond Raceway
36th
Watkins Glen International
26th
The NASCAR Playoffs begin on September 4th at Darlington Raceway.
Watch the Kurt Busch crash video
Links
Kurt Busch | Ty Gibbs | 23XI Racing | Joe Gibbs Racing | NASCAR
