Kyle Busch will remain the driver of Richard Childress Racing’s No. 8 in the NASCAR Cup Series for 2026, RCR announced May 24.
The deal is currently a one-year extension for the former Cup champion.
“We’re proud to continue our relationship with Kyle Busch and remain focused on our shared goals of winning races and championships together,” Richard Childress, chairman and CEO of RCR, said in a team release. “Kyle is a tremendous racer and ambassador of the sport for our fans and partners. Everyone at RCR is committed to putting the pieces in place to enhance the competition side of our business.”
“It’s an honor to race for Richard Childress, our partners and Team Chevy fans,” Busch added. “I feel like my family and I have found a home at RCR, and it means a lot that Richard continues to put his trust into me. My chapter at RCR is not yet complete, and I know we are building something special here.
“I remain focused on adding more wins and a championship to our collective resumes, and I want to thank Richard for the steps he is taking to help put all of the necessary pieces into place to give us a legitimate shot at a championship.”
In 2025, Busch has one top five and four top 10s through 12 races, sitting 17th in points. He joined RCR in 2023 and has three wins with the organization, all in his first season.
The release indicated that Austin Dillon will be back in the No. 3 as well, noting that “Busch joins Austin Dillon as part of a two-car NASCAR Cup Series lineup in 2026.”
Kevin Rutherford is the executive editor of Frontstretch, a position he gained in 2025 after being the managing editor since 2015, and serving on the editing staff since 2013.
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