Richard Childress traveled to Michigan International Speedway expecting to announce a contract extension for Kyle Busch, but instead faced the difficult task of publicly addressing the driver's death for the first time. Busch passed away on May 21 after severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, leaving the racing community in shock.

The two-time Cup Series champion was in a contract year with Richard Childress Racing and had shown recent improvement, posting a season-best eighth-place finish at Watkins Glen following a crew chief change. Childress revealed they had positive discussions about Busch returning to the No. 8 Chevrolet in 2027, with Busch confident he could make The Chase given proper equipment.

Austin Hill has driven the car in the past two races and will remain in the seat for the remainder of the season. Childress emphasized stability for the team, stating they don't want to burden everyone with constant driver changes. The organization is preserving the No. 8 for 11-year-old Brexton Busch, Kyle's son, who recently raced at a dirt track with his father.

Childress believes Kyle Busch deserves immediate induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, calling him one of the greatest drivers ever. The 80-year-old team owner, who also lost Dale Earnhardt in 2001, said watching Busch enjoy his son's racing career made the loss especially painful.