Kyle Busch leaving RCR has become a topic of intense speculation following a winless run so far in the 2025 NASCAR season. Veteran motorsports journalist Bob Pockrass said that Busch, currently signed with Richard Childress Racing through 2026, may seek a move if the team’s competitive struggles continue. Busch did not qualify for the Cup Series playoffs and sits 21st in the standings, fueling further discussion about his future with the team.
Despite Busch’s reputation as a two-time series champion and former title-winner with Joe Gibbs Racing, his performance has lagged, ending a 19-year streak of at least one win per season last year. He remains without a victory since June 2023, raising questions about what lies ahead for one of NASCAR’s most decorated drivers.
NASCAR Journalist Raises the Possibility of Busch Exiting RCR
Pockrass addressed the situation on Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast and expressed doubt that Busch’s future successes would necessarily come with RCR, while hinting at interest from other teams:
“I think Kyle Busch wins again. I just don’t know whether it’s at RCR or not. And look, I think Spire would like to have him and see what they can do with him. He can’t be happy, and if they continue to run the way they’ve been running, he’ll want to leave.” — Bob Pockrass, Motorsports Journalist
Busch has had a tough stretch with Richard Childress Racing, managing only two top-five finishes and eight top-10s across 31 races this season. His Las Vegas roots and competitive spirit have kept him motivated, but his current position with 631 points and no postseason slot highlights the significant challenges facing both driver and team.
Crew Chief Changes and Organizational Shifts at RCR
The next event, the Bank of ROVAL 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, marks another chapter for Busch. For the first time, Andy Street will serve as his crew chief, as Randall Burnett transitions to Trackhouse Racing for future seasons. This change at the top of the team’s pit box adds another layer of uncertainty to Busch’s situation and RCR’s future direction. The race is set for Sunday, October 5, streaming on USA and covered on PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90.
Denny Hamlin Supports Change for Busch Amid Losing Streak
As Burns moves on, fellow NASCAR star Denny Hamlin, who was Busch’s teammate at Joe Gibbs Racing, offered his perspective on the crew chief shakeup and Busch’s ongoing struggles. Hamlin sees the changes as necessary for all involved:
“I think he needed a change. I think all parties need a change. Certainly, Kyle’s going through it right now. The performance is not there. I am a believer that Kyle Busch still has the ability to go win races. I do think that his cars are off, but I don’t think they’re off to the extent that we’re seeing on Sundays.” — Denny Hamlin, Former Teammate
“There’s got to be a little bit of shared responsibility in what’s going on with Kyle Busch right now, but certainly it’s not good. So I think everyone just wanted a change of scenery — they’re all going to get it,” he added.
As Burnett takes on a new role as crew chief for Connor Zilisch, who is aiming for his first full Cup Series season, he will continue offering support to RCR through the rest of 2025.
What’s Next for Kyle Busch and RCR?
The internal movement at Richard Childress Racing, along with crew chief transitions and a lack of wins, has fueled rumors about Kyle Busch leaving RCR. As other teams, such as Spire, reportedly show interest, the spotlight remains on Busch’s performance and decisions in the upcoming races. The outcome of the Charlotte Motor Speedway event and the remainder of the season may determine whether the star driver opts for a new chapter or works to rebuild at RCR. The stakes are high for both Busch and the organization as they navigate pivotal changes and mounting pressure from fans and sponsors alike.
