North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has ordered that both the United States flag and the North Carolina state flag be lowered to half‑staff from May 23 through May 24 as a solemn tribute to NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, who died on Thursday after a brief illness.
Busch, a two‑time NASCAR Cup Series champion, was entering his 22nd full‑time season in the series and held the record for the most wins across NASCAR’s three national divisions, a testament to his longevity and dominance on the track.
A Nation’s Tribute
The tribute arrives just days before Busch was slated to compete in the Coca‑Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, a race that would have marked another milestone in his storied career.
In a statement released on Friday, Governor Stein described Busch as “a talented and record‑setting driver, as well as a kind person,” and said the flag‑lowering was a small gesture to honor a man who “captivated fans with his skill and his spirit.”
Governor Stein and his wife Anna extended their deepest condolences to the Busch family, noting that the racing community mourns the loss of a true competitor and a generous friend.
The flag‑lowering is part of a broader tradition of honoring distinguished figures who have shaped American culture, and it underscores the impact Busch had on the sport and its fans nationwide.
Fans, fellow drivers, and officials have taken to social media and trackside gatherings to share memories, highlighting Busch’s sportsmanship, his charitable work, and the indelible mark he left on motorsports.