June 12, 2025 – Mexico City, Mexico — In a stunning development just days before the highly anticipated Viva Mexico 250, NASCAR star Kyle Busch has been detained at the Mexican border and will not compete in this weekend’s race. Mexican authorities reportedly apprehended Busch due to an outstanding warrant connected to his arrest in early 2023, a legal issue that appears to have resurfaced at an inopportune time for both the driver and his team.
According to multiple sources, Busch was stopped while attempting to enter Mexico and taken into custody by federal officials. While details about the nature of the warrant remain limited, it is confirmed to be linked to a past incident involving a firearms-related charge from his previous visit to the country.
As a result of Busch’s unexpected detainment, Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has confirmed that Jesse Love will step in to pilot the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro in his place. Love, a rising star in NASCAR’s ranks, will make his first start in the No. 8 car under urgent and high-profile circumstances.
“We’re working closely with local authorities to ensure that Kyle’s situation is resolved appropriately,” RCR said in a brief statement. “In the meantime, we have full confidence in Jesse Love, who’s more than ready to step up and represent RCR this weekend.”
This isn’t the first time Busch has faced complications stemming from the 2023 incident. At the time, he was briefly detained after a firearm was discovered in his luggage while departing Cancun International Airport. Though he was released and returned to the United States, Mexican authorities continued to pursue legal action, which appears to have culminated in today’s events.
The Viva Mexico 250, a key event in NASCAR’s international series expansion, is set to take place at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Busch had been one of the marquee names expected to draw large crowds to the event, making his absence all the more notable.
Jesse Love, who has already made waves with his strong performances in the Xfinity and Truck Series, will now have a major opportunity to showcase his talent on an international stage. The 20-year-old has been widely regarded as one of NASCAR’s future stars, and this sudden call-up could fast-track his ascent in the sport.
As of now, there is no timeline for Busch’s release or any official comment from the driver himself. NASCAR has not issued a formal statement regarding the situation but is expected to do so as more information becomes available.
