Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup champion and devoted football fan, made headlines this week by expressing his preference for Peyton Manning as a racing spotter over Tom Brady, when asked in a recent interview about which NFL legend he would choose to guide him on the track. Busch, who is in his third season with Richard Childress Racing and remains unsigned for the next year, stated his reasons with conviction, highlighting Manning’s superior game-calling skills as the primary factor in his decision. This revelation offers a fresh perspective on Busch’s approach to racing strategy, blending his appreciation for football with his experiences in motorsports.
During his fifteen years driving the No. 18 car for Joe Gibbs Racing, Busch had already drawn parallels between football and racing, but his latest comments show just how much he values a spotter’s ability to read situations on the fly. Peyton Manning, famed for his command on the field with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, shares a unique connection with Busch through their mutual use of number 18. When asked directly who he would want in his ear during high-pressure races, Busch answered emphatically,
Peyton Manning. He is probably one of the best game-callers ever. He would be able to maybe look at certain situations and be able to pick up on things, whereas another celebrity might not be able to, and I would kind of enjoy his voice in your head.
When pressed about Tom Brady, often called the greatest quarterback of all time, Kyle Busch conceded Brady’s strengths but explained why Manning would be his top choice. “Tom’s not far behind,” Busch explained.
I think Peyton had better games in which he made a lot more calls himself over his coaching staff, whereas Tom relied a lot on his coaching staff. But obviously, you have to have instinct, and he doesn’t lack in that.
Busch’s evaluation underscores a deep respect for both quarterbacks, yet reveals a clear preference for independent, quick decision-making—qualities he values in both racing and football.
This isn’t the first time Kyle Busch has invoked the Brady-Manning comparison. After his last race for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2022, he likened his own move to Richard Childress Racing to the high-profile team changes of both iconic NFL quarterbacks. By drawing these parallels, Busch continues to invite football analogies into his racing career, positioning himself as someone willing to embrace change, pursue excellence, and look for strategic edges wherever possible.
Kyle Busch’s perspective offers valuable insights into how athletes draw inspiration across sports, hinting at how leadership and quick thinking define both football icons and successful racing drivers. As speculation about his racing future continues, highlighting Manning’s game-calling ability signals Busch’s desire for innovation and adaptability on and off the track. Fans and experts alike will be watching to see how these influences shape his next moves.
