Busch hospitalized due to illness, sidelined for Charlotte

Kyle Busch has been hospitalized with an undisclosed illness and will not race this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The Busch family posted the following statement on social media Thursday morning:

“Kyle has experienced a severe illness resulting in hospitalization. He is currently undergoing treatment and will not compete in any of his scheduled activities this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. We ask for understanding and privacy as our family navigates this situation.”

In addition to his Cup Series ride for Richard Childress Racing and the Coca-Cola 600 to run Sunday night, Busch was entered in the Friday night Craftsman Truck Series race with Spire Motorsports. He won last weekend’s Truck Series race at Dover Motor Speedway.

Busch is 24th in the Cup Series standings through 12 races.

Austin Hill will drive the No. 8 Chevrolet in place of Busch in Sunday night’s race.

“Kyle Busch’s health is our upmost priority and he and his family have the full resources of RCR behind them,” Richard Childress Racing posted on social media. “Kyle is an integral part of our organization and we wish him a safe and speedway recovery. His No. 8 Chevrolet will be ready and waiting for him.

“We’re thankful to Austin Hill for stepping in to drive the No. 8 Chevrolet this weekend. Please keep Kyle and the Busch family in your prayers, and help us respect the family’s privacy at this time.”