NASCAR Officially Removes Kyle Busch From 2026 Standings

Prior to his tragic death last week, Kyle Busch had racked up more than 200 Cup Series standings points during the 2026 NASCAR season.

The veteran NASCAR Cup Series driver was 23rd in the Cup Series standings. He had totaled 217 points through the first 12 races of the season. Busch had two top 10 finishes, including impressive runs at Talladega and Watkins Glen.

But in the wake of his death, NASCAR has officially removed Busch from the 2026 Cup Series points standings.

NASCAR explained to Fox Sports that it made the decision "following conversations with [his Richard Childress Racing team] about how to handle Busch's death and being empathetic of the impact to those who would see his name in the standings."

Busch, whose last win came in 2023, died as a result of complications from pneumonia and sepsis last week.

He was just 41 years old.

Busch's family is continuing to ask for privacy in the wake of his tragic death

Busch's family is asking for privacy.

"Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch. A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR's highest level and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series. His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.' Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha's parents, Kurt and all of Kyle's family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.

"During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to respect the family's privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Further updates will be shared as appropriate."

The NASCAR world continues to mourn his loss.

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This story was originally published May 28, 2026 at 8:15 AM.