Drivers remember Kyle Busch before race at late Las Vegas star’s hometown track

NASCAR Cup Series leaders Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin have shifted their focus towards winning the season championship at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Both drivers, along with other competitors, paused to honor the memory of Las Vegas native Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup champion who passed away on May 21 due to sepsis from severe bacterial pneumonia.

Hamlin emphasized the significance of Busch's hometown connection, stating that the team took great pride in competing at this track. Track organizers organized various tributes throughout the week, including a "Moment of Rowdy" on Lap 8 and renaming the Friday night race the Kyle Busch Classic. Kurt Busch, also a champion, will serve as the pace car driver in Sunday's race.

Larson, a fan favorite, plans to start the race with a throwback paint scheme celebrating Busch's early career at Hendrick Motorsports. Driver Carson Hocevar noted the importance of the Busch celebration for Vegas fans, as he represents a large portion of the driver's fanbase.