Kurt Busch, the 2004 Cup Series champion, is being honored as Kurt Busch is inducted into NASCAR Hall of Fame, drawing praise from those he influenced along his storied career. Among those celebrating his achievement is Ross Chastain, Busch’s former teammate, who credits Busch with being a guiding force early in his own journey.
Ross Chastain’s Memories of Teaming with Kurt Busch
Chastain shared his recollections of working with Kurt Busch during their time together at Chip Ganassi Racing in 2021. At that stage, Chastain had not yet recorded a Cup Series victory, and he looked up to the experienced driver as a mentor. Reflecting on their time working together, Chastain recalled receiving strong encouragement and advice from Busch throughout their tenure.
“He was really motivating for me when I came into the No. 42 car. I had trained with him and been around him for a couple of years.”
—Ross Chastain, Driver
Chastain noted the lessons he learned from Busch, particularly how Busch balanced a demanding schedule with an open willingness to share valuable racing wisdom.
“There were a lot of things I could ask him about and he’s like — well, I made that mistake, you know, 18 years ago or something. He’d had some story from way back in the day. It makes more sense now as I kind of step through my career.”
—Ross Chastain, Driver
Now driving for Trackhouse Racing, Chastain expressed gratitude for the support he received from Busch. He appreciated the impact those early conversations had, especially as he finds new relevance to them in his current career phase.
“He was nothing but good to me,”
—Ross Chastain, Driver. In their last season as teammates, Chastain finished twentieth in the Cup Series, while Busch secured eleventh place.
The Journey Toward NASCAR’s Highest Honor
Kurt Busch’s induction into the Hall of Fame was announced alongside the selections of Harry Gant and Ray Hendrick. Both Busch and Gant were chosen from the Modern Era Ballot with 61% of the vote, while Hendrick was named from the Pioneer Ballot after receiving 31%, finishing ahead of Bob Welborn.
Upon receiving the news, Busch reflected on the magnitude of the achievement and the journey that brought him to this point. He acknowledged that every nominee on the ballot made a significant contribution to the sport, expressing awe at his own blue-collar beginnings in Las Vegas. He said,
“We were a family where it was just a hobby. It was like a hobby to race, it was just fun to go to the track as father-son. Dad had his car and he helped me build mine.”
—Kurt Busch, 2004 Cup Series champion
Throughout his career, Busch distinguished himself with his remarkable ability to adapt to different teams and challenges, having raced for Roush Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing, and other top organizations. His success and versatility across these teams underscore why his induction into NASCAR’s Hall of Fame is such a fitting tribute.
Significance of the Induction and What Lies Ahead
Kurt Busch’s entry into the Hall of Fame stands as recognition of a career shaped by adaptability, mentorship, and lasting connections with fellow drivers like Ross Chastain. His story resonates not just as a testament to personal and professional achievement, but also as inspiration for future generations within NASCAR. As the celebratory induction approaches, attention turns to how Busch’s influence and example will continue to impact the racing world and those who follow in his footsteps.
