Kyle Busch became unresponsive while testing in a Chevrolet racing simulator one day before his death, according to multiple reports citing people familiar with the situation. Busch died Thursday at age 41.
Videos by FanBuzz
Several people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press that Busch was participating in a simulator session Wednesday in Concord, North Carolina, when a medical emergency occurred. The individuals spoke on condition of anonymity because Busch's family and team have not publicly discussed specific details surrounding the incident.
Busch was transported to a Charlotte-area hospital after the simulator session, according to the reports.
No official cause of death has been released.
Busch had reportedly been dealing with what was believed to be a sinus-related illness earlier this month. During the NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International on May 10, Busch radioed his team asking for medical assistance after the race, according to the television broadcast. The illness was said to have been aggravated by the physical demands of the road-course event.
It remains unclear whether the illness was connected to his death.
Busch competed as recently as last weekend, winning a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Dover before finishing 17th in the All-Star Race. That race would ultimately become the final start of his career.
One of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR history, Busch won 234 races across the sport's three national touring series — the most all-time. He captured Cup Series championships in 2015 and 2019 and was widely regarded as one of the defining drivers of his generation.
NASCAR confirmed the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway will proceed as scheduled Sunday. Earlier Thursday, Richard Childress Racing announced that Austin Hill would replace Busch in the No. 8 Chevrolet.
Speedway officials also said plans are underway to honor him during race weekend.
