See Also: Kurt Busch Biography
June 20, 2007
Tryson takes over #2 Busch Crew Chief Duties: Pat Tryson will become crew chief effective immediately of the #2 Miller Lite Dodge driven by Kurt Busch. Tryson replaces Troy Raker who has served as interim crew chief of the team since Texas. Troy will return to his previous role within the Penske engineering department. Tryson, a 10-year veteran Nextel Cup crew chief, led Mark Martin to the Chase for the Nextel Cup in each of the last three seasons while working for Roush Fenway Racing. Most recently, he served as crew chief for Greg Biffle and the #16 team. “I’m really looking forward to getting back to the races,” said Tryson. “Working with Kurt and the Penske organization is a great opportunity and I’m confident that we can accomplish great things together.” (Penske Racing PR)
June 9, 2007
Kurt Busch Penalized Due to Rule Infraction at Dover International Speedway: NASCAR announced today that Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 2 Dodge in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been penalized 100 championship driver points, fined $100,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31, 2007 for violating Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing reckless driving; endangering a crew member on pit road) of the 2007 NASCAR rule book. Car owner Roger Penske has also been penalized with the loss of 100 championship owner points due to his driver�s infraction. The violation occurred on pit road during the race at Dover International Speedway on June 4. (NASCAR PR)
June 15, 2006:
Busch's Miler Lite Crew wins Drive-Thru Challenge: By spending the least amount of time on pit road during Sunday’s NEXTEL Cup event at Pocono Raceway, Kurt Busch’s team earned its first Checkers®/Rally’s® Double Drive-Thru Challenge win of the seasonx. The No. 2 Miller Lite crew spent 193.228 seconds on pit lane, helping to advance Busch to a runner-up finish in the Pocono 500. “There was no better over-the-wall performance out there today than what my guys put together,” said Busch in post-race interviews. “They were second to none. They had me in and out at the front all day long. That last stop – they said it was something like a 12.3 (seconds) – that was pretty spectacular. That helped us get back up to second.” Busch’s over-the-wall crew includes: Ray Gallahan (jackman), Dave Littau (front-tire carrier), Jay Hackney (front-tire changer), Andy Brown (rear-tire carrier), Kevin Hebert (rear-tire changer), Chris Williams (gasman), Steve Williams (catch can) and Dustin Coonfield (windshield). (Checkers Drive-In PR)
May 28, 2006:
State OKs Kt. Busch wedding plans: The state has given its blessing to a 175-foot pier for the July 27 wedding of NASCAR driver Kurt Busch, with the promise the $24,500 structure overlooking the Chesapeake Bay will be torn down after ther ceremony. The conditional permit was granted to Dan Hoffler, a Virginia Beach real estate developer and Busch friend. Busch is marrying Eva Bryan, a former Old Dominion University student whose parents live in Chesapeake. They met on a blind date in July 2003. The wedding is scheduled for Hoffler's 125-acre Point Farm estate, just south of Eastville, according to Virginia Marine Resources Commission officials and Gary Bryan, father of the bride-to-be. The ceremony is slated for a remote, sandy spit. Besides the temporary pier, Hoffler will construct a 6,350-square-foot platform in sandy dunes at the southern tip of the spit. The plywood platform also will be removed after the ceremony, according to plans. (Daily Press)
May 28, 2006:
Kt. Busch incident at Speedway: A vehicle being driven by Nextel Cup driver Kurt Busch allegedly made contact with a part-time employee of Lowe's Motor Speedway on Friday night at a movie premiere. Busch was arriving for the premiere of the Disney movie "Cars" in the infield of Lowe's. He allegedly made contact with a parking attendant. "Kurt's vehicle allegedly made contact with this person around the knee area," said Jerry Gappens, the senior vice president of events for Lowe's. "He continued working, then later had it checked out and everything was fine." The unnamed employee also was working at the speedway yesterday. No police report had been filed with the Concord police department as of yesterday afternoon. According to Gappens, Busch met with Lowe's President H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler to let him know what had happened. Busch had no comment yesterday. (Times-Dispatch)
May 19, 2006:
Kurt Busch donates 1 million to VJGC: Nextel Cup driver Kurt Busch announced Friday he has donated $1 million to the Victory Junction Gang Camp through his charitable foundation. The donation will go toward the construction of Kurt Busch's Sports Superdome, a 28,000 square-foot facility which will provide opportunities for indoor sports in a climate-controlled environment. "Many people in the NASCAR family are already very familiar with the Victory Junction Gang Camp created by Pattie and Kyle Petty as an oasis of hope, love and excitement – a true miracle for needy children," said Busch. "I feel very strongly about this charity and will be proud part of its worthwhile causes." (ThatsRacin)
April 21, 2006:
Kurt Busch completes community service: Kurt Busch began his return to Phoenix International Raceway by completing 50 hours of community service for his reckless driving charge before last November's race. Busch donated more than $10,000 worth of baseball equipment to the Westside Recreational program and spent Wednesday signing autographs for more than 300 kids at Friendship Field. He also taped a public service announcement on safe driving. "To have my 50 hours complete, that definitely is a breath of fresh air,'' Busch said before Thursday's qualifying for the race he won a year ago. "We did 100 percent of the effort in the Phoenix community to make a large impact with children in the community.'' (NASCAR.com)
April 20, 2006:
Kurt Busch without McCauley at Phoenix: [Kurt] Busch will be without crew chief Roy McCauley this week. McCauley, 36, underwent minor surgery Tuesday for a blockage after experiencing mild chest pains. Matt Gimbel, the crew chief for the Busch-Penske Busch team, will fill in for McCauley. (Salem-Journal)
March 28, 2006:
McCauley Wypall Crew Chief of the Race: Kurt Busch and crew chief Roy McCauley survived 500 laps of furious racing action this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. Despite setbacks with tires and radio transmissions, Busch battled back from the problems to capture his fifth victory at Thunder Valley. Busch's come from behind win earned McCauley the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Race. Trouble started early for Busch and McCauley. From the get-go, Busch and the team battled radio problems that hindered Busch from communicating with the team. On lap 62, a flat right-rear tire forced the #2 Miller Lite Dodge to make an unscheduled pit stop. Even with the problems, Busch methodically worked his way through the field in route to one of the speedway's most impressive comebacks. A panel of voters; including Tony Eury Sr., a member of the local media and a Wypall Wipers representative; all agreed that McCauley's comeback deserved Crew Chief of the Race accolades. For winning the Crew Chief of the Race award, Wypall Wipers gave McCauley $1,000. At the end of the season, the crew chief with the most weekly wins will receive $20,000 and be crowned the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Year. This was McCauley's first Crew Chief of the Race award in 2006, which ties him with Darian Grubb and Kenny Francis for second-place in the standings. Robbie Reiser is in the lead with two wins. (Wypall PR)
March 26, 2006:
Busch Wins in New Penske Ride: New team, new car, same old results for Kurt Busch at Bristol Motor Speedway. Busch brashly bumped Matt Kenseth -- his old teammate -- out of his way with four laps to go Sunday to win the Food City 500, his fifth victory in the last nine races on the half-mile track. But this was his first win since joining Roger Penske's team at the start of the season and taking over the famed No. 2 Dodge that nine-time Bristol winner Rusty Wallace drove. Busch celebrated his victory by jumping from his car, grabbing the checkered flag and doing "snow angels" on the finish line as a nod to the wintery weather that plagued the track all weekend. "This is unreal," he said. "I'm just so happy to be able to have this car and have Roger's privilege to do so." (AP/CNNSI - Results - Points)
March 22, 2006:
Kt Busch does NYC Media tour: In support of the Gillette Young Guns program, Miller Lite Dodge driver Kurt Busch will be doing a "media blitz" in New York City on Wednesday, March 22. KB is scheduled to appear on "Live with Regis & Kelly," ESPN's "Cold Pizza" and FOX News Channel's "Dayside with Linda Vestor." (Alan Taylor Communications)
Feb. 24, 2006:
Busch wins pole for Auto Club 500: Kurt Busch pulled further away from the controversies that dogged him all winter by easily winning the pole position Friday for the NASCAR Auto Club 500 at California Speedway. The 27-year-old Las Vegas native turned a lap at 187.086 mph in his Penske Racing Dodge on the two-mile, D-shaped track in Fontana, nearly a mile an hour faster than runner-up Greg Biffle, who will sit beside him on the starting grid Sunday. (L.A. Times) (Starting Grid)
Feb. 9, 2006:
K. Busch, Skinner, Petty among others on Golf Channel's Big Break: Riding on the success from a previous NASCAR The Big Break: All-Star Challenge edition (Dale Jarrett, Elliott Sadler, Jamie McMurray, Michael Waltrip and Rusty Wallace), some of NASCAR’s best will once again perform their driving skills…on a golf course for a charity of their choice. These contestants (Kurt Busch, Mike Skinner, Kyle Petty, Boris Said and Hermie Sadler) will not only take on one another, they’ll also take on some of the most demanding challenges from The Golf Channel’s The Big Break reality series. Now in its fifth season, The Big Break (The Big Break V: Hawaii airs each Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET, through May 9) has been one of The Golf Channel’s most successful shows in the network’s 11-year history, featuring golfers putting it all on the line for a chance to earn exemptions to play on some of the world’s top tours, such as the LPGA Tour, Nationwide Tour, European Tour and Canadian Tour. Thousands of golfers toil endlessly on the mini-tours, chasing their dreams and aiming for a shot to play with the best in the world. The Golf Channel and The Big Break give them that shot. Viewers see great golf - strategy, tension, clutch shots and critical mistakes - as contestants take on challenges that reveal the strengths and weaknesses in their games and test their mental toughness. Players are eliminated one by one until only one is crowned Big Break champion. Previous All-Star shows have involved the Boston Red Sox, Brett Favre and Green Bay Packers teammates and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Golf Channel PR)
Feb. 8, 2006:
Kurt resolves Arizona traffic incident: #2-Kurt Busch appeared in Aqua Fria Justice Court today and agreed to the terms proposed by the Maricopa County [Arizona] Attorney's Office and approved by the Court regarding a traffic incident that occurred on Nov. 11, 2005. "I am pleased to have this incident behind me," Busch said. "I have learned many lessons from the situation and one of them is that speeding should be saved for the race track. I am excited for the 2006 race season to begin and look forward to the racing activities at Daytona this week." Busch took responsibility for excessive speed, as well as citations for passing in a no passing zone and following another vehicle too closely. As part of the resolution, Busch will perform community service, which will be determined in the near future. (Penske Racing PR) Busch will serve 50 hrs. of community service
Jan. 23, 2006:
Kurt Busch testing: 2004 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch will test at Nashville Superspeedway Tuesday, January 24 (tomorrow). (Nashville Superspeedway PR)
Jan. 11, 2006:
Busch, Edwards to tire test: Kurt Busch sported new colors today at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Dressed in a brand new blue firesuit, Busch took his first laps in the historic #2 Miller Lite car. Busch and three-time Atlanta Motor Speedway winner, #99-Carl Edwards, were at the track today to assist Goodyear Racing Tires with the first of a two-day test session. Busch's new crew chief, Roy McCauley said, "Today, Goodyear is looking at wear, heat, overall lap times, grip level and load. Based on all the data taken during the test, they will choose the tire that will not generate too much heat, but provide enough grip to make the driver comfortable." Edwards posted the fastest unofficial time of the day with a lap of 189.993 mph (29.18 seconds), while Busch's fastest lap was 187.869 mph (29.51 seconds). Both times were comparable to race speeds. "Atlanta...man, this place is fast," said Busch. "I enjoy coming here. I think all the drivers enjoy coming to this race track. With the new testing rules, this test is beneficial for our team," said Busch. "Goodyear gets to use our resources to test their tires, but the biggest thing is we get track time." Tickets are on sale now for all three days of racing excitement during the March 17-19 Golden Corral 500 race weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, with ticket prices starting at $30. For fans who want to attend all three days or racing action, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck, Busch and NEXTEL Cup races, three-day tickets start at $70 (quantities are limited). For more information, call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at (770) 946-4211, 1-877-9AMSTIX or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. (AMS PR)
Jan. 9, 2006:
Busch/Penske testing: Kurt Busch was at Lakeland Speedway last Wednesday getting acquainted with his new team. Breaking in the #2 Miller Lite Dodge with Busch was crew chief Roy McCauley and new car chief Corey Tucker, who honed his skills on Ryan Newman's Penske team that won six races in nine Busch Series starts last year. (Sporting News)
Dec. 25, 2005:
Busch's court date rescheduled: #2-Kurt Busch has a January court date to face a criminal reckless driving citation he received while in the Valley for the Nextel Cup race last month. Busch was scheduled to appear in Tolleson Justice Court on Thursday but changed the court date to 9:00am on Jan. 27, according to court officials. The 2004 Nextel Cup champion was belligerent and uncooperative when he was pulled over by Maricopa County sheriff’s deputies on Nov. 11 near Phoenix International Raceway, according to sheriff's reports. A breath test and field sobriety tests confirmed Busch wasn't drunk, but deputies issued a criminal traffic citation for reckless driving. Busch's 2005 team, #97 Roush Racing [now #26 team, Busch to drive #2 Dodge in 2006], suspended him for the final two races of the season. (East Valley Tribune)
Dec.. 9, 2005:
New Crew Chief for Busch and #2: Penske Racing South announced today that Roy McCauley will become the crew chief of the #2 Miller Lite Dodge effective immediately. McCauley replaces Larry Carter who will move to a management role within Penske Racing South's operations division. "I am pleased to announce these changes to our racing organization," Roger Penske said. "Roy brings a wealth of technical and engineering experience to the #2 team. Roy and Kurt will be a great team and when you combine them with Ryan Newman and Matt Borland, we are looking forward to building on our recent successes. I want to thank Larry Carter for his contributions as crew chief with the #2 team. His leadership was instrumental in guiding Rusty into 'The Chase' this season. Whereas Matt and Roy will focus on the competition side of our business, Larry will bring a wealth of experience to an important management role within the operations of Penske Racing." The moves of Carter and McCauley were made along with other personnel changes at Penske Racing South as the company prepares its two NEXTEL Cup teams for the 2006 season. (Penske Racing South PR)
Nov. 30, 2005:
Crown Royal on Busch: Crown Royal would have disassociated itself from Kurt Busch after his run-in with the law even if Busch had been leading the Nextel Cup standings with two races left in the season, a company representative said Tuesday. "Our position would not have changed," said Dan Sanborn, director of sports marketing for Diageo North America, the parent company of Crown Royal whiskey. "We do not condone that sort of behavior." Roush Racing subsequently suspended Busch for the season's final two races. In a Tuesday session about spirits sponsorships in NASCAR at the Sports Business Journal/Sports Business Daily Motorsports Marketing Forum, Sanborn and other liquor company representatives said Busch's reported behavior would have been sufficient for them to end a relationship with him. "We would have done exactly the same thing," said John Hayes, brand director for Jack Daniel's. "It would have been two-faced for us to be speaking about being responsible and then turn our cheek to that." (Charlotte Observer)
Nov. 18, 2005:
Busch regrets actions during stop: A repentant Kurt Busch said he regrets becoming "argumentative" with an officer during a traffic stop last week in Phoenix, but insists that alcohol played no part in his behavior. "When I was asked by the officer if I had been drinking, I explained to them I had one drink during dinner, but I was certainly not intoxicated," Busch said in an exclusive telephone interview with The Associated Press from his Charlotte, N.C., office Thursday night. The reigning NASCAR Nextel Cup champion was pulled over for driving 60 mph in a 45 mph zone, swerving to avoid a car and running a stop sign last Friday night on his way back to Phoenix International Raceway. He said he was returning from dinner with his fiancee. The police report said the deputy smelled alcohol on Busch, and the driver became belligerent. "You're only doing this because you're a Jeff Gordon fan," Busch was quoted as saying to the officer in the police report, released earlier Thursday in Phoenix. He was eventually issued a misdemeanor citation for reckless driving. "I admit I became a bit argumentative with the officer when he continuously insisted that I submit to a field sobriety test and a breath test, which I ultimately did," Busch said. "I later learned my (preliminary breathalyzer) test was .017. That's consistent with an individual my size having one drink. That's brought us to this point. (More at Orlando Sentinel)
Kt. Busch traffic stop was routine: NASCAR driver Kurt Busch was clearly "not under the influence of alcohol" when pulled over last week for driving recklessly, Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said. Busch told sheriff's deputies he had one margarita over dinner at a Mexican restaurant, and a preliminary breath test showed a blood-alcohol content of only .017 percent, significantly below the legal limit of .08, according to a report of the incident released Thursday. Arpaio said the report showed Busch did not receive preferential treatment. "We were following the normal procedure for any DUI investigation or arrest," Arpaio said. "His driving behavior was reckless and he was cited for that." (AZ Central)
Nov. 16, 2005:
Busch was below legal alcohol limit: Nextel Cup champion driver Kurt Busch had a 0.017 blood-alcohol level on a preliminary sobriety test, far below the state's impairment limit, Maricopa County sheriff's office said Tuesday. Busch was detained Friday on suspicion of drunken driving and cited for reckless driving after a confrontation with Maricopa County deputies. He was suspended by Roush Racing for the rest of the season. Maricopa County sheriff's spokesman Lt. Paul Chagolla said the preliminary test is not admissible in court, but is designed to help indicate the presence of alcohol. The legal limit in Arizona is 0.08. Chagolla said deputies tried to administer an official alcohol breath test but the machine malfunctioned. None of the six signs that would indicate impairment during another test were present either. (Yahoo! Sports)
Nov. 15, 2005:
Miller Lite comments on Busch: Kurt Busch will be with the Miller Brewing Company when he takes over the #2 Miller Lite Dodge in 2006. Asked if Penske Racing South was still confident that Busch was the right pairing for that sponsorship, the team president, Don Miller, said: "Absolutely. I see some qualities that he has that are excellent. But I've also seen some areas we need to work on." Although he is not yet with Penske, Busch was contacted by officials at Miller yesterday. "We've spoken with Kurt and we're confident he truly understands the significance of his behavior, particularly regarding the fact we cannot and will not tolerate any behavior that demonstrates a lack of responsibility in the consumption of alcohol," the company said in a prepared statement. "We're going to stand by Kurt, but we made it clear to him that we expect him to also stand by us by demonstrating behavior befitting a true champion." (New York Times)
Kurt Busch held out of Championship weekend activities: The unveiling of the 2004 Nextel championship banner at 1 p.m. today has been canceled, speedway spokesman Phil de Montmollin said. The banner currently is on display, but Homestead had scheduled to formally honor Busch, who last year won the first Nextel Cup under the current chase format. Entering Sunday's race he ranks ninth, 441 points behind leader Tony Stewart. ''It's not a real big deal for us, because the championship banner will be up,'' speedway president Curtis Gray said. Greg Biffle, fourth in the chase, will replace Busch at a question-and-answer session during the ''All-Star Welcome to Ford Championship Week,'' with Marlins outfielder Jeff Conine. During the event from 6 to 9 p.m. at Conine's Clubhouse Grille in Hollywood, fans can view the Nextel Cup and win two tickets to the Ford 400. (Miami Herald)
Nov. 14, 2005:
Dale Jr. weighs in on Busch
Nov. 13, 2005:
NASCAR Statement on Busch: NASCAR fully supports Jack Roush’s decision to replace Kurt Busch as the driver of the #97 Ford for the remainder of the season. Based on the facts that are known today, no actions by NASCAR are necessary. (NASCAR PR)
Roush Racing suspends NEXTEL Cup Champion Busch: Roush Racing announced that effective immediately it has suspended Kurt Busch for the remainder of the season. "This suspension is made after full review of all the circumstances surrounding Kurt's Friday night altercation with the Arizona police, and after consultation with our primary sponsors, Newell Rubbermaid and Diageo," said Jack Roush, team owner. "All parties are in complete support that the action being taken today is necessary and appropriate under the circumstances. "We give our profound apology and support to the arresting officer and the entire Maricopa County Sheriff's Office and thank all of the officers for the great job they do with helping the Phoenix International Raceway bring our event to so many wonderful Arizona race fans," Jack Roush continued. (Roush Racing)
Kt. Busch releases statement on citation: "I regret the incident that occurred near the Phoenix International Raceway Friday evening where I received a traffic citation. It is important to understand that this citation is not alcohol related. I want to apologize to the Maricopa County Sheriff's department for my actions." (Kurt Busch Inc)
Nov. 12, 2005:
NEXTEL Cup Champion Busch cited for Reckless driving: Reigning Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch is scheduled to appear Dec. 22 at Tolleson Justice Court to answer a criminal traffic citation for reckless driving he received Friday night. According to a Maricopa County Sheriff's Office spokesman, Busch was stopped at about 8:20 p.m. local time Friday near Phoenix International Raceway for "erratic driving." After the officer detected the smell of alcohol on his breath, Busch refused a field sobriety test and was taken into custody and transported to the sheriff's office's temporary facility at the raceway, the spokesman said. At the facility, a blood-alcohol test was attempted on Busch but the machine "malfunctioned," the spokesman said. Busch was then released with the criminal citation for reckless driving. When asked about the incident, NASCAR spokesman Jim Hunter said, "He got a traffic ticket." Hunter said any other questions regarding the incident should be addressed to Busch. (Herald Today)
Nov. 7, 2005:
Busch to drive the #2 Miller Lite Dodge next season: Penske Racing South announced today that Kurt Busch will drive the Miller Lite Dodge commencing with the 2006 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup season. Busch, the 2004 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup champion, has reached an agreement with Roush Racing to be released from his driver responsibilities for the 2006 season. Busch will join Penske Racing South at the conclusion of the 2005 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup season. "We are pleased that Kurt and Roush Racing were able to reach an agreement on Kurt's release and appreciate the professionalism that it has taken to arrive at this result," said Roger Penske, chairman. "Kurt's joining us for 2006 will provide a smooth transition for the team and our sponsors." Busch had recently signed a multi-year agreement with Penske Racing South that was to take effect in 2007. (Penske-Racing South)
Nov. 2, 2005:
NFL Hall Of Famer Tony Dorsett Joins Kurt Busch in Texas: Dallas Cowboys Legend to Aid Crown Royal No. 97 Pit Crew for Dickies 500: Kurt Busch is hoping to regain last year’s championship fortunes by adding one of Texas’ favorite sons, Dallas Cowboys legend Tony Dorsett, to his Crown Royal No. 97 Ford team for Sunday’s Dickies 500. Dorsett will join the Crown Royal team as an honorary pit crew member during the race at Texas Motor Speedway. “Anytime I can join a championship team in Texas, I’m all for it,” said Dorsett. “I can help Kurt Busch and his Crown Royal team because I know the difficulty of repeating a championship year. My rookie year, I got a ring with the Cowboys in Super Bowl XII, but we couldn’t get past Pittsburgh in the Super Bowl the following year.” Kurt Busch won the 2004 Nextel Cup Championship and is ninth in the Chase for the Cup with three races remaining. Dorsett will meet with fans earlier in the day at the Crown Royal Experience Tent at the track. Crown Royal is the Official Whisky of Texas Motor Speedway. (Alan Taylor Communications)
Nov. 1, 2005:
REPORT: Busch Released, McMurray Released: According to published reports, ESPN's Mike Massaro is reporting that Roush Racing has released 2004 Nextel Cup Champ #97 Kurt Busch from his 2006 contract obligations, allowing Busch to go to the #2 Miller Lite Dodge. Also, reported that Jamie McMurray has been released from his 2006 Ganassi Racing contract to drive the #42 Texaco Dodge, allowing him to go to Roush Racing, taking over for Busch.
Oct. 10, 2005:
Busch not happy with teammate: #97-Kurt Busch wasn't happy with his teammate, #17-Matt Kenseth, early in Sunday's race because he wouldn't let him lead a single lap - and gain five bonus points in the championship race. Kenseth said there are no company orders to help teammates, especially when that teammate is a competitor in the playoffs. "When you get in the Chase you've got to get all the points you can," Kenseth said. "You can't give points away. I'm sure (Busch) is mad at me." Jack Roush said he doesn't want his drivers to play favorites. "I don't expect them to do that," he said. "In fact, I'd be disappointed if they did that." (Augusta Chronicle)
Oct. 3, 2005:
More on Busch/Penske//Roush: Defending series champion Kurt Busch says he's trying to get out of his contract with Roush Racing and move to Penske Racing South next season and fill the spot vacated by Rusty Wallace. Busch's contract with Roush goes through next season. He has signed to race at Penske for 2007. Any change is likely to be contingent on Jamie McMurray getting out of his contract at Chip Ganassi Racing to move to Roush Racing. McMurray's contract with Ganassi goes through next season. He has signed to race at Roush for 2007. Geoff Smith, president at Roush Racing, says the team will need to have a deal finalized in the next two weeks to allow Busch to move on or he'll remain with the team next year. Smith says sponsors are planning their marketing campaigns for next season and any major change at this point would alter those plans. (New-Record)
Sep. 26, 2005:
More on Busch to #2 next year? Rusty Wallace said lawyers are currently working to get Kurt Busch out of his contract at Roush Racing so he can drive the #2 Dodge at Penske Racing South next year. "I know he wants to drive the car next year," Wallace said. "They're trying to get everything worked out." (Augusta Chronicle)
Sep. 18, 2005:
Busch wrecks early, down many laps: Defending NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch was knocked out of the opening race of the 2005 Chase for the championship on the second lap of Sunday's Sylvania 300 at New Hampshire International Speedway. Busch, one of 10 drivers qualified for the 10-race title playoff, started 12th in the 43-car field and was running side-by-side with Scott Riggs when Riggs appeared to lose control of his car, slid up into Busch's No. 97 Ford and sent it spinning into the outside wall between turns one and two on the banked 1.058-mile oval. (Orlando Sentinel)
Sep. 17, 2005:
Busch out before end out season? sources close to Jack Roush say that Roush may indeed be releasing Busch to Penske before the end of the season, though it still isn't clear just who Roush might have in mind to take that seat. Roush has steadfastly insisted he has no plans to release Busch. (Salem-Journal)
Sept. 12, 2005:
Fennig Wins Wypall Crew Chief of the Race Award: Kurt Busch and Jimmy Fennig made Richmond International Raceway their personal playground this weekend in the Chevy Rock N Roll 400. Busch drove the #97 Crown Royal Ford to his third win in 2005, leading the most laps along the way. His victory marked his eighth top-10 and 14th top-five for the season. The No. 97 team's performance earned Jimmy Fennig the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Race award. "Kurt Busch, he got up on that wheel," said Fennig. "The guys did an awesome job. It was a big team effort. We lost a couple of races this year because of faulty parts or bad things happening, but Kurt was on a mission tonight and got it. We had a good car. Our car was good on short runs and long runs. Now I'm going after that championship." The panel of voters; including John Markon of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, a Wypall Wipers representative and Tony Eury Sr.; all voted for Fennig as the crew chief that did the best job. "He led the most laps and picked up the win," said Eury Sr. "There's really not a lot more that you could ask for. That's the kind of race that every crew chief hopes to have." Doug Richert leads the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Year standings with five wins. Alan Gustafson is in second place with three wins. Bob Osborne, Jimmy Fennig, Greg Zipadelli and Robbie Loomis are tied for third place with two wins. Tommy Baldwin, Scott Miller, Fatback McSwain, Steve Hmiel, Greg Erwin, Slugger Labbe, Robbie Reiser and Pete Rondeau are in a tie for fourth place, each with one win. At the end of the season, the crew chief with the most weekly wins will receive $20,000. Fans can also vote for their choice at wypall.com. (SMC 500)
Sep. 11, 2005:
Chase is set, Busch Wins, Gordon Out, Roush All in: At the end of 400 harried laps under the lights at Richmond International Raceway, nerves were frayed, egos were bruised, Kurt Busch's car was in Victory Lane and the lineup for the "Chase for the Nextel Cup" was set. But the whole evening will be remembered as much for who did not squeeze into the Chase as for who did. Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth and Ryan Newman, in order, secured the final three spots in NASCAR's equivalent of a postseason, while Jeff Gordon, stock car racing's most recognizable driver and four-time Cup champion, battled a poor-handling car for most of the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 and wound up 30th, 83 points out of the Chase. Gordon started sixth, but slipped to 28th after pitting on Lap 115 for a loose lug nut. He continued to run in the rear of the field until Lap 214, when he was forced up too far up the track by Johnny Sauter in Turn 2 and smacked the wall. "That's it; we're done," Gordon yelled over the radio. (Washington Post - Results - Points)
Aug 29, 2005
Penske plans to get Busch in 2006: Hanging over Jack Roush at the moment is the Kurt Busch affair. Busch has signed a contract to drive for Roger Penske beginning in 2007, and he says he'd like to leave Roush at the end of this season. Roush has so far said no. However, Penske officials say they fully expect to get Busch for next season, though it may not be until October that they can get everything sorted out. Roush though shows no signs of yielding. "The structure that surrounds our business, we need rules for the technical aspects of it, and we need rules and guidelines and to make commitments that work for our business ... and I guess we're going to have some trials with those things right now to see if the structure we've got with our business works so we can make guarantees," Roush said of the Busch contracts. (Salem-Journal/Mike Mulhern)
Aug 20, 2005
3 to 4 weeks on Roush decision on Busch: Car owner Jack Roush says he probably won't decide Kurt Busch's 2006 plans "for three or four weeks," while Geoff Smith, the head of Roush Racing, reviews sponsorship commitments and options in assessing whether to let Busch leave to join Roger Penske. (Salem-Journal)
Fenning to stay at Roush: Roush Racing #97 crew chief, Jimmy Fennig, a man of very few words said on Friday morning that he will not follow his current driver Kurt Busch to Penske Racing -- his loyalities are to the team owner. "I'll Stay with Jack (Roush) no matter what," says Fennig. Was Fennig surprised that Busch had jumped ship and signed with Penske and was he upset at the turn of events? "It was pretty much a surprise, but that's racing," Fennig continued, "Was I upset -- No? Life goes on" (InsiderRacing.com)
Aug 16, 2005
Souvenirs part of Busch's reasoning, and Roush might consider release: Among the reasons for Busch to leave Roush was the opportunity to earn more money from souvenir sales for the No. 2 Miller Lite car at Penske than he could at Roush, where his sponsorship is divided between Sharpie and Crown Royal. Roush said Busch told him he had a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity when he asked to be released from his contract. “And we will consider releasing him, but it’s not presumed that we will,” Roush said. “We’ve got to consider the interest of our sponsors and commitments we’ve made to our sponsors and our people within the organization to see how it all fits together. “If we decide to have Kurt drive that No. 97 car in 2006, in order to make all of our commitments, to make us have the best prospect of being successful and viable from a business point of view, then we’ll ask him to keep his commitment. Roush said it is possible the sponsors for the No. 97 could ask him to release Busch so their money doesn’t support a lame-duck driver next season “There’s a lot of things that might happen,” he said. “Right now, the presumption is (Kurt will) be in that car in 2006. That is the commitment he’s made to me and I’ve made commitments to others around that.” (The State)
Aug 13, 2005
Busch hopes Roush lets him out early: Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch is hoping car owner Jack Roush will change his mind and release him with a year remaining on his contract. ``It's Jack's decision,'' Busch said Saturday at Watkins Glen International. ``We'll see what happens.'' Busch went to Roush earlier this week to tell him he had a deal to drive for Roger Penske in 2007 and asked to be released from his contract after this season. Roush said no, then told Busch they'd have to find a way to work together for the rest of this season and all of the next one. ``The thing I'll give you today is that you shouldn't expect a release for 2006,'' Roush told him. Given that, Busch was asked if he thought his departure after this season would be best for everyone. ``You could speculate on that,'' he said. ``For me, I'm happy wherever I go.'' He called 2006 a question mark but said he has a great opportunity to win for either car owner. Beyond that Busch would not comment on 2007. (Yahoo! Sports)
Aug 12, 2005
Roush won't release Busch for 2006: Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch won't be released from the final year of his contract with Roush Racing, car owner Jack Roush said Friday. Earlier this week, Busch signed a deal to drive for Roger Penske in 2007 and asked Roush that he be released from his current contract after this season. "He said, 'I don't want to negotiate with you for 2007,'" Roush said Friday at Watkins Glen International. "I said, 'OK,' and he said, 'I want to be released for 2006.' I said 'not OK.'" Busch, who arrived late at the track, said he would speak later in the day. (USA Today)
Aug 10, 2005
Kurt Busch Releases Statement: “I met with Jack Roush personally Tuesday morning to let him know that I am committed to Roush Racing and the #97 team as we attempt to defend our Nextel Cup Championship this season and through the remainder of my contract, but that I have signed a multi-year agreement to drive the Penske Racing South #2 car beginning in 2007. We did briefly address, solely as a matter of timing, the possibility of a release from my 2006 contract with Roush Racing, but that is Jack’s decision. There are a lot of factors involved in a release and no immediate decision was made. All of this, however, is in the future. For as long as I am in the #97 car, my total focus and commitment will be to Roush Racing, its sponsors and on our collective goal to win another Nextel Cup Championship. I look forward to success this weekend at Watkins Glen and hopefully solidifying our position in the 2005 Chase for the Cup.” (Kurt Busch Inc.)
Aug 10, 2005
Busch at Wrigley Field: Reigning NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch is stirring things up, looking to change teams and taking a few shots at rival Jeff Gordon while at Wrigley Field on Tuesday. Penske Racing is planning for Busch to replace the retiring Rusty Wallace next year but doesn't yet have Busch contractually until 2007. Busch sported an equally terse message to Gordon on his shirt Tuesday while at Wrigley to throw out the first pitch and sing during the seventh-inning stretch. Taking a shot at Gordon's butchering of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during his appearance May 24, Busch had a friend make a shirt that read, "REAL CUBS FAN (I know the words)." "I fell off my chair" at hearing Gordon's version, Busch told Cubs broadcasters Bob Brenly and Len Kasper. He said Gordon, who is 14th in the point standings, is still cursed but has offered to loan him a couple of goats from his farm. (Chicago Tribune)
Penske Racing South Signs Kurt Busch: Penske Racing South announced today that it has signed Kurt Busch, 2004 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Champion, to a multi-year contract to drive for the team beginning with the 2007 season. (Penske Racing South PR)
Aug 9, 2005
Correction: 04 Champion Kurt Busch to Penske, to replace Wallace: Reigning Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch has signed with Penske Racing South to replace retiring driver Rusty Wallace in its No. 2 Dodges, ThatsRacin.com has learned. On Tuesday, Roush Racing confirmed Busch, 27, has already signed with another team for the 2007 season and has asked to be released from his 2006 obligations. "Due to sponsor and team considerations no decision on that request will be made for an indefinite period," the statement said. "Roush Racing will have no further comment at this time." Sources confirmed Busch's 2007 deal is with Penske Racing South and could make him one of the highest-paid drivers in the sport, if not the highest. What Penske would do should Busch not get out of his 2006 deal isn't clear, although asking Wallace to remain another season does not appear to be an option, sources said. (Star Telegram)
Aug 5, 2005
Busch to get Married: Mentioned on ESPN Radio, All Night with Todd Wright with Kurt Busch. Busch, defending NEXTEL Cup champion and girlfriend Eva Bryan recently took a trip to Europe. Busch, got down on a knee for a marriage proposal to Eva and she accepted. Congrats go out to the both of them. Checkout All Night with Todd Wright, Sun. - Thurs Late Nights. 1.00 am-6.00am on ESPN Radio.
Busch giving rides in Indy: Busch, who turns 27 today, could end up driving home someone who lives within 20 miles of Downtown in a replica of his No. 97 Ford. "I'm definitely going to have fun with this," Busch said, "but I will be relaying the message of responsible drinking and hopefully I'll make an impression." Most of Crown Royal's 10 purple and gold cars will give rides home to customers age 21 and up from several designated Downtown Indianapolis areas -- just look for signs with the No. 97 -- from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. There's a four-passenger limit per car. (Indy Star)
Aug 4, 2005
Crown Royal Offers rides home in Race Car: Crown Royal is partnering with NASCAR driver Kurt Busch this month to remind young people of drinking age that getting home safely should be a top priority. A fleet of purple and gold Crown Royal No. 97 Ford Taurus' (replicas of the official race car) will offer bar patrons around downtown Indianapolis rides home. Some will be surprised to find the NASCAR champion Kurt Busch himself behind the wheel. Crown Royal-branded taxi stands will be placed outside participating bars on Meridian Street today from 9 pm to 1 am with 10 cars rotating to drive patrons home (within a 20-mile radius of Indianapolis). Riders must be 21 or older. The promotion is part of the brand's Be a Champion. Drink Responsibly campaign to remind partiers to use a designated driver. Crown Royal's motorsports marketing plan includes primary sponsorship of the No. 97 car at six races during the 2005 season, including the Allstate 400 at Brickyard, taking place this weekend in Indianapolis. When acting as an associate sponsor of the No. 97 car, the brand supports Busch. The brand has held consumer promotions at retail events and run print and TV ads for its responsible drinking campaign. (Promo Magazine)
Aug 1, 2005
Kurt Busch visits F1 Race: Reigning NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series champion Kurt Busch attended the Hungarian Grand Prix on the weekend before heading to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard on Aug. 7. Like the rest of the NEXTEL Cup drivers, Busch wants to win at Indianapolis. “It is a big trophy,” he said in Hungary. “Every driver wants to kiss the bricks.” Busch spent time in the F1 garages at the Hungaroring, including chatting with 2003 Indianapolis 500 winner Gil de Ferran, now sporting director of Lucky Strike BAR Honda. “I was just talking to Gil de Ferran; what a champion he is,” Busch said. “The amount of quality drivers you see come through this walk of life (F1) is amazing, and I am here to say hello.” This was Busch’s second trip to Europe to attend a F1 race. He also went to the 2003 European Grand Prix at Germany’s Nürburgring. “I’m intrigued by this sport, on how it looks and how the people operate, and just the excitement,” Busch said. “It is so different for me (compared to NASCAR). It is my only off weekend, and here I am at a racetrack halfway around the world.” “I am just beyond belief when I look at them,” Busch said of the F1 cars. “The technology, the amount of money they pour into them. It’s quite the show. I’d love to have the opportunity to try and drive one.” (Indianapolis Motor Speedway PR)
July 18, 2005
Fennig wins Wypall Crew Chief of the Race: After Kurt Busch made an early spin in Sunday's New England 300, nearly everyone considered the defending race champ out of contention. Despite the setback, Busch, with guidance from crew chief Jimmy Fennig, stormed back to finish the race in second place. Busch's clutch performance marked his fifth top-10 finish in nine races at New Hampshire International Speedway, including four top-fives. For engineering his driver's comeback, Fennig was voted the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Race. Busch qualified his #97 Irwin Industrial Tools Taurus in 5th place, but his track position took a turn for the worse after he spun out in the first forty laps of the event. The incident dropped Busch to the tail-end of the field. To make things worse, Busch overshot his pit stall on the following yellow flag. Once again Busch fell back in the pack, but good pit stops and a strong handling car gave Busch the ammunition he needed to charge through the field. The panel of voters; including Chuck Givler of the Easton Express-Times, a Wypall Wipers representative and Robbie Reiser; all agreed that Fennig was the crew chief who made the biggest difference in the race. Doug Richert leads the Wypall Wipers Crew Chief of the Year standings with five wins. Alan Gustafson and Robbie Loomis are tied for second place with two wins. Tommy Baldwin, Scott Miller, Bob Osborne, Fatback McSwain, Greg Zipadelli, Steve Hmiel, Jimmy Fennig and Pete Rondeau are in a tie for third place, each with one win. At the end of the season, the crew chief with the most weekly wins will receive $20,000. Fans can also vote for their choice at wypall.com. (SMC 500)
July 1, 2005
Kurt Busch and Smirnoff at Daytona: Reigning NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch and his sponsor, Smirnoff ICE, helped some of the 200,000 fans traveling to Daytona International Speedway (DIS) arrive safely for this weekend’s Pepsi 400 race. Smirnoff ICE, with Busch and his ‘pit crew,’ partnered with the Repair One® Automotive of Daytona Beach to provide free automobile safety tests during the heavily-traveled summer months. Busch and his ‘pit crew’ checked tire pressure, headlights, fluid levels, belts, among other tests performed. The initiative was to further promote Smirnoff ICE’s “Be Smart, Drink Responsibly” campaign. Smirnoff ICE will serve as primary sponsor of Busch’s No. 97 racecar at the Pepsi 400. In his last race at DIS in February, Busch finished second in the season-opening Daytona 500. (Alan Taylor Communications)
May 19, 2005
NASCAR Orders Busch to Straighten Up: Kurt Busch has been ordered by NASCAR to start behaving like a champion. His first test will be the All-Star race, an event at which Busch has struggled to stay out of trouble. The defending Nextel Cup champion has had at least two gaffes in the $1 million race, including triggering an 11-car accident last year that wrecked both Busch and teammate Greg Biffle. He also admitted to intentionally spinning Robby Gordon in 2002 to bring out a caution that would regroup the field and give Busch a chance to win the race. Because the Nextel All-Star Challenge is a dash for cash, with no points at stake, a driver can take risks without jeopardizing his pursuit of NASCAR's championship. (NASCAR)
May 10, 2005
BUSCH No Further Penalties: Geoff Smith doesn't expect Busch to receive further penalties from NASCAR this week. "I think he is definitely aware of where he stands today," NASCAR vice president of communications Jim Hunter said in an e-mail. "Without going into any further detail, he certainly knows NASCAR is not going to tolerate any future temper tantrums. President Mike Helton made our position very clear." Says Smith: "He's now on notice. So if there's anything else, there's going to be a penalty associated with it." (USATODAY)
Kurt Busch's Team Wins Pit Crew Challenge: Kurt Busch's team won the National Pit Crew Championship, defeating Jeremy Mayfield's crew in the final round with a mistake-free stop Monday night. Busch's crew, which helped him win the Nextel Cup championship last season, didn't make a single mistake during the competition and picked up $100,000 for the win. Mayfield's team earned $25,000 for finishing second. Joe Nemechek's crew was third – missing out on a spot in the finals because of a two-second penalty for a loose lug nut in the semifinals. (AP/SOSD)
May 9, 2005
Rubber head Busch Blows Up: Defending Nextel Series champion Kurt Busch had an awful -- and embarrassing -- night after wrecking on the first lap and then infuriating NASCAR with his behavior. Busch got loose and spun going through Turns 3 and 4, hitting the inside wall and forcing the No. 97 Ford into the garage for front suspension repairs. Busch returned to the Dodge Charger 500 60 laps down to salvage every point he could. But he lined up in the wrong place on the track during a Lap 318 caution, and refused an order from NASCAR to stop his car to allow the field to pass so Busch could get in the correct spot. He was sent into the pits for a two-lap penalty, and NASCAR officials took offense to the language he used over the radio. He "screamed several choice words on the radio," NASCAR spokesman Jim Hunter told NASCAR.com More on Busch's Actions and NASCAR's Helton Comments at (News-Journal)
April 23, 2005
Kurt Busch Recovers Nicely, Wins at Phoenix: Kurt Busch knew he had the best car Saturday night, but he had to keep coming from behind to prove it. "It's probably one of our best wins," Busch said after holding off a determined Michael Waltrip in the NASCAR Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway. "You think you've got it put together, but something happens and you get behind. It says a lot for the team that we were able to overcome all the things that happened to put us behind," Busch added. The defending NASCAR Nextel Cup champion led 219 of 312 laps on the mile oval, emphatically putting behind him a streak of bad luck that included crashes at four consecutive events, including an IROC race a week ago at Texas Motor Speedway. (ABC News) (Points - Results)
April 11, 2005
Busch not pleased: Kurt Busch both had a strong car but saw his chances to win end late. Busch wrecked as he raced Jeff Gordon for fourth. Gordon got under Busch in turn 3 and they made contact with 53 laps to go. Busch's car backed into the wall. Later in the race, Busch swerved in front of Gordon when Gordon attempted to lap him. They made contact. Gordon eventually got by without suffering any damage. "I'm disappointed," said Busch, who finished 19th. "We just ran out of patience again with another Hendrick car." Asked about the contact with Gordon when he was being lapped, Busch said: "That was just showing my displeasure." (NewsRecord)
Feb. 17, 2005
Busch fans ID PLEASE: Young fans of Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch will be confronted with a new reality if they visit the team's souvenir trailer at the Daytona 500 this weekend. If they want to purchase a piece of licensed merchandise featuring Busch's 2005 car, they'll have to flash identification proving they are 21 years of age. And if parents are looking to purchase Busch merchandise for their children, that's not going to happen either, as all outerwear will come in adult sizes only. Busch's young fans could be considered a casualty of the latest alliance in NASCAR, as alcohol sponsorship was expanded to include the hard liquor category this offseason. Jack Daniel's took Dave Blaney's car; Jim Beam scooped up Robby Gordon; and Diageo tabbed Busch to tout its Crown Royal and Smirnoff Ice brands. Although NASCAR is requiring each of the companies to spend 20 percent on alcohol responsibility campaigns, Diageo officials voluntarily decided to impose an age limit on who can buy logo gear at the track, as well as avoiding clothing in children's sizes. (ESPN)
Feb. 11, 2005
Busch Doesn't Plan To Race Forever: Kurt Busch might not stick around NASCAR's Nextel Cup series as long as veterans such as Mark Martin, Rusty Wallace, Terry Labonte and Bill Elliott. Those drivers are in their 40s and winding down long and successful careers. Martin and Wallace plan to make 2005 their final full season in Cup racing, Labonte is cutting back to a 10-race schedule for both 2005 and 2006 and Elliott went to a limited schedule last season. The 26-year-old Busch is a long way from joining the elder statesmen of the spot, but the 36-race season - particularly the 10-race playoff-style finish - have already taken their toll on the series champion. (Mercury Sun)
Feb. 10, 2005
Kurt Busch and Crown Royal Drink Responsible Campaign: Reigning Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch will begin his quest for back-to-back championships this weekend during the preseason Bud Shootout in the colors of new sponsor Crown Royal. In the process, he will become the first NASCAR driver to race in the paint scheme of a spirits brand since NASCAR announced last November that spirits companies would be allowed to participate as team sponsors. In this inaugural season, Crown Royal Championship Racing will utilize its new association with NASCAR to promote responsible drinking with millions of NASCAR's adult fans. They will allocate a multi-million dollar marketing budget to support the sponsorship of Kurt Busch and his No. 97 team, which will include dedicated social responsibility messaging under the tagline "Be aChampion. Drink Responsibly." (PRNewsWire)
Feb. 7, 2005:
Busch and President Bush: At 2:05 pm, President George Bush looks forward to a photo opportunity with the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch and other members of his team at the Oval Office. (whitehouse.gov)
