Kyle Busch has not fared well in the recent Next-Gen era, especially in the second half of the last two seasons. The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion has faced difficulties since the introduction of the 7th Gen car, which also marked his last season with JGR. During this period, Busch only managed one win, which was a lucky move at the Bristol dirt race, before exiting the playoffs early. His debut season with RCR was no different, as he started strong with three wins, but had significantly lower performance in the playoffs.
One track where Busch has struggled especially is Bristol. Apart from the two dirt races, he has not been able to pose a challenge. According to a Cup champion in 2014, the driver of the Chevy No:8 is frustrated with his performance at Bristol, and last weekend at BMS was no exception.
Kyle Busch is considered one of the greatest drivers at Bristol since the track opened in 1961. He has captured eight wins on the 0.533-mile concrete surface, ranking third on the all-time Cup race wins list at the track. The only drivers ahead of him are NASCAR champions. The top spot belongs to [driver’s name] with 12 wins, followed by [drivers’ names] with nine wins each.
The RCR driver was hoping to redeem himself with another impressive performance, like his second place finish last year, and regain the momentum lost in the recent races, including at COTA. However, he may have to wait for the next race week to have that opportunity.
Lors de l’inspection pré-course avant la course à Austin, la Chevy n°8 a échoué deux fois avant d’obtenir enfin l’autorisation à la troisième tentative. En conséquence, le chef d’équipe a été écarté et Busch a perdu sa place préférentielle dans les stands. Dimanche, il devra partir de l’arrière du peloton.
RCR doit fournir à Busch une voiture fiable pour la course de dimanche et s’assurer qu’ils effectuent des arrêts au stand impeccables, contrairement aux courses précédentes. L’équipe a désespérément besoin d’un regain de dynamisme, et la seule personne qui peut le fournir est Kyle Busch. Cependant, pour que cela se produise, son équipe doit également faire sa part.