In a significant shift within the NASCAR landscape, two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has announced his intention to retire from full-time Cup competition following the 2025 season. The 40-year-old driver will transition to a full-time role in the NASCAR Xfinity Series starting in 2026, marking a return to the series where he holds the all-time win record.
Busch’s decision comes after a challenging period with Richard Childress Racing (RCR). Despite a promising start in 2023, including three race victories, the 2024 season saw Busch fail to secure a single win, ending a 19-year streak of consecutive seasons with at least one victory. He also missed the playoffs for the first time since 2012, finishing 20th in the final standings—his worst since his rookie year in 2005 .
The 2025 season has shown glimpses of Busch’s enduring talent, notably at the Circuit of the Americas where he led 42 laps before finishing fifth. However, the emergence of younger drivers like Christopher Bell, who overtook Busch in the final laps at COTA, underscores the evolving competitive landscape of the Cup Series .
Returning to the Xfinity Series full-time offers Busch an opportunity to compete at a high level while leveraging his extensive experience. He previously made select appearances in the series, including a five-race stint with Kaulig Racing in 2023, where he expressed enthusiasm about re-engaging with the series .
Busch’s storied career includes 63 Cup Series wins, two championships (2015 and 2019), and a record 102 Xfinity Series victories. His return to full-time Xfinity competition is anticipated to bring heightened attention and competitiveness to the series.
As Busch prepares for his final full-time Cup season, fans and competitors alike will watch closely to see if he can add to his impressive legacy before embarking on this new chapter in the Xfinity Series.
