General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 2:57 AM ET

NASCAR/Motorsports

The motorsports world reeling from tragedy as NASCAR icon Kyle Busch died at age 41, leaving behind a legacy as the most decorated driver in Cup Series history with two championships and over 200 wins across NASCAR's three series. Busch's representatives confirmed earlier Thursday that he had been hospitalized with a severe illness, which ultimately forced his withdrawal from Sunday's Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Throughout his career, Busch embodied motorsports' greatest compliment to fans and competitors alike, serving as both a racer who delivered and a role model in an era when many drivers struggled to connect with their audience.

Boxing/Fighting Sports

Kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven lands shot at Usyk, setting up a highly anticipated cross-sport showdown between the Dutch champion and unified heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk. Promoter Eddie Hearn described Verhoeven as "not a normal man", acknowledging the "mountain to climb" his fighter faces but highlighting the unique opportunity created by Verhoeven's connections and status in combat sports. Meanwhile, Belfast's Caoimhin Agyarko will challenge Josh Kelly for the IBF light-middleweight title this summer, adding another high-profile bout to the boxing calendar. In other fight news, former Bellator and Strikeforce boss Scott Coker announced plans for new league, aiming to establish a "global brand in MMA" with his upcoming venture set to launch next year.

Formula 1

Max Verstappen hints at F1 stay with the three-time world champion suggesting he'll continue racing beyond his current contract, particularly as Formula 1 prepares for engine rule changes that will return racing "almost back to normal." Lewis Hamilton dismissed retirement plans, insisting he will "be here for quite some time" as he continues his quest to equal Michael Schumacher's record of seven championships. Mercedes driver George Russell aims to overcome turbulent start to the season, targeting a strong performance at this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix after a challenging opening to the campaign. McLaren's F1 program showcases female talent with Ella Häkkinen, Ella Lloyd and Ella Stevens making waves in the junior ranks, earning their "Rihanna-inspired" nickname through their rapid progression through the racing hierarchy.

Basketball

Steve Kerr remains with Warriors despite having "nothing left to prove" in his coaching career, with the NBA champion deciding to stay in Golden State after facing down personal pains that convinced him he had "everything left to play for." The Indiana Fever received warning after star Caitlin Clark was not initially listed on the team's injury report but was a late scratch with back soreness before Wednesday's game. The Oklahoma City Thunder optimized for happiness as a basketball utopia, with the franchise's player-centric approach positioning them as favorites to win another NBA title. In college basketball news, the University of Georgia received $10M donation from the founder of a daily fantasy sports company, boosting the men's basketball program significantly.

Tennis

The French Open maintains prize money despite player complaints about their share of the major's revenue, with tournament director Amelie Mauresmo confirming no adjustments will be made to this year's prize pool. British tennis fans celebrated breakthroughs as Toby Samuel reached his first Grand Slam main draw with victory in French Open qualifying, while Emma Raducanu drawn against clay specialist Argentine Solano Sierra in a tricky first-round matchup. Jannik Sinner opens career slam bid against French wild card Clement Tabur, facing an unfriendly crowd in his quest for a career Grand Slam at Roland Garros.

Rugby

Ulster boosted by Baloucoune return as fit-again winger Robert Baloucoune was named to start Friday's European Challenge Cup final against Montpellier, providing a major boost to the team's chances. The same final sees Ulster called to fight with head coach Richie Murphy demanding his players "fight with everything they have got" against Montpellier. Wigan Warriors suffered tune-up defeat to champions Hull KR 4-1 in their final preparation before the Challenge Cup final, with the Wigan side featuring 10 debutants in the match. Meanwhile, Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley confirmed yet to sign Welsh rugby's latest Professional Rugby Agreement, leaving the region's future participation in the league uncertain.

Other Sports

Former Wales international Rhys Thomas held own heart in his hands after life-saving heart transplant surgery in his hometown of Cape Town, marking a remarkable recovery for the former rugby prop. Georgia baseball powered by home runs with the Diamond Dogs showing impressive offensive prowess that could potentially lead them to SEC tournament success and even the Men's College World Series. Kansas baseball scoured juco ranks to transform itself into one of the sport's top programs, finding success through strategic recruitment from the junior college system. Florida center Rueben Chinyelu returned to Gators after removing his name from the NBA draft, opting to complete his senior season. Top-10 high school sophomore Kam Mercer committed to Cincinnati while planning to reclassify up into the 2027 class. US PGA Champion Aaron Rai revealed wife's advice that helped him secure victory in the biggest round of his career. Afghanistan women's refugee team will tour England this summer in their continued bid to be recognized for international competition. Bristol Bears' Christiana Balogun shared journey to England debut four years after being diagnosed with cancer. British Gymnastics replacing complaints process after criticism from abuse victims regarding the treatment of gymnasts. The T20 Blast returns with perfect weather as Grace Ballinger previewed the competition with wall-to-wall sunshine forecast for the opening