Kurt Busch’s singular journey took an emotional and unexpected turn when Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin chose him for a pivotal role at 23XI Racing, a key chapter in the Kurt Busch 23XI Racing hiring story. The decision came after Busch’s career was interrupted by a concussion during the 2022 season at Pocono, ending his time as a full-time NASCAR Cup driver but opening a door to mentorship and legacy-building with racing icons.
How Busch’s NASCAR Career Reached a Defining Moment
Although sidelined by injury, Busch’s impressive résumé, featuring a 2004 NASCAR Cup Series championship and a Daytona 500 victory, put him among the sport’s elite. After his accident, Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin saw value in keeping his expertise within 23XI Racing, offering him a mentoring role. Busch described the experience of working directly with Michael Jordan as a career highlight, foundational to his sense of accomplishment.
Throughout his career, Busch drove for several major NASCAR teams: Roush Racing, Penske Racing South, Stewart-Haas Racing, and Chip Ganassi Racing. Yet Busch recounted that joining 23XI Racing at Jordan’s request was his most cherished racing memory.
“When Michael Jordan hired me on 23XI Racing.”
—Kurt Busch, Driver
Busch recalled his meeting with Michael Jordan and their lawyers, when Jordan made a memorable declaration about what he sought for 23XI Racing. According to Busch, Jordan’s drive and heartfelt approach resonated with his own, underlining the trust both men shared about leadership and passion for competition.
“Michael said, ‘We know you have the talent, we know you have the leadership, we know you have the grit to do it, but you have from your heart, just like I played basketball.’ I just fell in love with that, and that was my shining moment and moniker on my way out.”
—Kurt Busch, Driver
The Decision to Step Away and Return Once More
Busch’s 2022 season in the No. 45 Toyota remained notable: a victory at Kansas, four other top-five results, and a series of top-10 finishes in 20 races before his injury forced him out. Despite being off the track, he stayed connected to the team and the sport as a respected mentor and figurehead.
During his tenure with Chip Ganassi Racing, Busch realized that his longtime sponsor Monster Energy was scouting younger talent, while the team ownership was changing hands. Sensing it was time, Busch felt ready to transition away from racing, having surpassed many of his personal goals. But when approached by Jordan, Hamlin, and Toyota about joining 23XI Racing for another full-time seat, he initially turned the offer down.
“Guys, I’ve fulfilled everything that I’ve wanted to,”
—Kurt Busch, Driver
Nevertheless, Busch allowed himself space to reconsider, inspired in part by advice from NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin. Encouraged by this counsel, Busch accepted one more opportunity to compete, which ultimately yielded another celebrated victory and allowed him to conclude his racing story on his terms.
Feelings on Retiring Without a Grand Farewell
In a recent interview with Speedcafe, Busch discussed his views on retirement and the possibility of returning to motorsports in some capacity. He expressed openness to stepping back into a race car under the right circumstances, perhaps in drag racing or a different series, but was not looking to take on another demanding and lengthy Cup Series campaign.
When asked if he regretted not having a high-profile send-off like other NASCAR legends such as Kevin Harvick, Busch was frank about his stance. He said, “No, not at all,” believing that the ending of his Cup career, though abrupt and lacking formal celebration, remained in line with his resilient personality. Busch built his reputation over a 24-year Cup career, amassing 34 wins, 28 pole positions, and 339 top-10 finishes across 776 starts. Despite accidents and challenges, he finished feeling gratified and at peace with the way his career concluded.
Legacy and Lasting Impact of Busch’s Journey
Kurt Busch’s transition to mentor and his connection with 23XI Racing underline his influence both on and off the racetrack. His experience spans some of the biggest teams, including Roush Racing, Penske Racing South, Stewart-Haas Racing, and Chip Ganassi Racing, alongside his signature moments with Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. While his Cup Series driving ended without a grand celebration, the trust placed in him by racing luminaries shaped both his legacy and the future path of 23XI Racing.
With an indelible record and the respect of fellow drivers and fans alike, Busch’s story demonstrates how a driver’s true impact is often defined not just by trophies, but by the relationships, opportunities, and integrity maintained throughout a storied career.
