In a significant shift within the NASCAR landscape, Kyle Busch is set to take over the No. 8 car for
Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in the 2023 season. This move marks the end of Busch’s impressive 15-
year tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), a decision prompted by the team’s inability to secure an
agreement with the two-time Cup champion. The announcement was made at the NASCAR Hall of
Fame, where Busch proudly displayed his two championship rings from his time at JGR.
Busch shared his excitement about joining RCR, stating, “I’ll be taking my talents to Welcome, North
Carolina, to drive the No. 8 car starting in 2023.” This transition comes as Tyler Reddick, the current
driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet and a contender for the Cup championship, will remain with RCR after
announcing his move to 23XI Racing for the 2024 season. Richard Childress revealed he informed
Reddick about his departure from the No. 8 just an hour before Busch’s announcement.
In a nostalgic moment, Childress also presented Busch’s young son, Brexton, with a future contract
option to drive for RCR. This gesture reflects the bond and history between Childress and Busch, which
has evolved over the years, especially after a past incident in 2011 that saw the two at odds. Their
reconciliation has paved the way for Busch’s new chapter at RCR, where he hopes to thrive once again.
Busch’s move is particularly noteworthy for Toyota, which has supported him since he joined JGR. Over
the years, he accumulated an impressive record, including 60 Cup wins, the most in the Xfinity Series,
and an equally strong presence in the Truck Series. However, with limited opportunities at JGR and
23XI, Busch found a new home with Chevrolet, a brand he first aligned with as a young driver at
Hendrick Motorsports. Toyota expressed its disappointment but recognized Busch’s contributions to the
brand throughout his career.
Childress has noted the palpable excitement in the atmosphere at RCR since rumors of Busch’s potential
arrival began circulating. He sees in Busch the same fierce competitive spirit that characterized the late
Dale Earnhardt, whose legacy looms large at RCR. As the Cup Series playoff approaches, Busch’s return
to Chevrolet could prove to be a turning point, reinvigorating his career as he seeks further success in the
sport.
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