Kurt Busch releases statement following DWI arrest

Former NASCAR champion Kurt Busch was arrested for DWI, among other charges earlier this week in North Carolina.

He has since released a statement regarding the incident.

“I’m very disappointed in myself and I apologize to my family, my racing family, and to my fans. I will work with the authorities to rectify the situation and work with the county to make it a safer place in the future.”

The incident occured at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Monday night when he was pulled over going 63 miles per hour in a 45 mph zone. The Iredell County deputy on scene said that Busch had “red glassy eyes,” and a “strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath,” which was obtained by the Iredell Free Press. He later admitted to consuming alcohol before operating his vehicle.

He was also charged with reckless driving, as well as speeding.

Busch’s blood-alcohol concentration came in at 0.17, which was higher than the 0.08 legal limit. He was taken to the Iredell County Detention Center and released in the early morning hours on Tuesday morning.

His court appearance is set for Sept. 19.

Busch has been retired from NASCAR since stepping away from full-time racing due to health issues in 2022. He went on to officially retire almost a year ago after amassing one of the most decorated careers during his time on the track which featured a championship title, and 34 victories over his NASCAR Cup Series career to go with the 2000 Rookie of the Year Award. Alongside his brother, Kyle, they are the winningest brothers in NASCAR history.

“I only ever had one dream, and I chased mine with 100% of who I am, every single day. Racing at NASCAR’s highest level was always my dream, just ask the blue collar kid from Las Vegas who only ever wanted a shot. I’ve spent 23 years living my dream, and it’s been a hell of a ride for that kid from Nevada,” Busch narrated during his retirement video.

After he announced his retirement, Busch was recognized at the NASCAR Awards in December. He was emotional as the tributes came in. In retirement, Busch still has a relationship with 23XI Racing. He’s also made his way around the world, from F1 races to Isle of Man and even Chicago Cubs games.

Ahead of the Chicago Street Race earlier this year, he sang the Seventh Inning Stretch at Wrigley Field where he is an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs.