As Kyle Busch reflects on his journey in racing, he recently revealed the idols who inspired him in his youth, highlighting his admiration for Jeff Gordon among other NASCAR icons. While Busch has charted his own legendary course and become a role model to many, he credits figures like Gordon, Dale Earnhardt, Mark Martin, and Dale Jarrett as his favorite NASCAR drivers growing up.
Influences That Shaped Busch’s Early Fandom
The two-time Cup Series champion and former WWE 24/7 titleholder shared that despite the modest 13-year difference between himself and Jeff Gordon, it was Gordon’s breakout performances in the mid-1990s that made a lasting impression on a young Kyle. At just nine years old, Busch found himself rooting for Gordon, whose eye-catching DuPont rainbow car and youthful energy set him apart during that period.
Busch recounted choosing to support Gordon when he first started making waves in the series during 1994 and 1995, describing the appeal of the new, vibrant competitor. Busch’s own emergence would later inspire other drivers, but it was the achievements and styles of established names in the sport that drove his childhood excitement for NASCAR.
He did not limit his attention to just one figure. Dale Earnhardt, Mark Martin, and Dale Jarrett also earned Busch’s admiration, representing a generation of racers who regularly contended for victories in the 1990s. These drivers collectively set the standard and atmosphere for the NASCAR scene that Busch grew up watching.
“Me being nine years old at the time, and then of course, though, I always enjoyed watching you know Dale Earnhardt, Mark Martin, Dale Jarrett, all those guys that were winning races at that time.”
—Kyle Busch, Driver
Family Dedication Behind the Career
Reflecting further on his journey into racing, Busch described the importance of his family’s passion for cars, especially crediting his father’s dedication as a car enthusiast who restored and collected vintage models like ’32 Fords. Growing up immersed in this environment, both Kyle and his brother Kurt were supported by their father, whose sacrifices proved crucial to getting their racing careers started.
“He had to sell one of his in order to be able to pay for my brother’s start and my start in racing. So, it was unfortunate to see him have to get rid of one of the cool ones that he built.”
—Kyle Busch, Driver
Such actions demonstrated the lengths families often go to in support of motorsport aspirations, shaping Busch’s path from fan to professional driver. The memories of his father’s sacrifice remain significant as Kyle continues to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead to NASCAR’s Legacy
As Busch nears the later stages of his career, his reflections on his favorite NASCAR drivers growing up underscore the importance of legacy within the sport. With Hendrick Motorsports and other leading teams continuing to draw in new talent, the NASCAR Cup Series sustains its tradition of evolving heroes. Kyle Busch’s journey, influenced by legends like Jeff Gordon and fueled by family commitment, serves as an inspiring chapter in the ongoing story of stock car racing, highlighting how past champions inspire future trailblazers.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where will Kyle Busch go in 2026?
A. Kyle Busch will keep driving the No. 8 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing until the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. This was announced on Saturday at Charlotte Motor Speedway by both Busch and RCR.
Q. Will Kyle Busch retire?
A. Kyle Busch has announced he will continue racing with Richard Childress Racing by renewing his contract until 2026, dismissing any retirement plans.
