Kurt Busch will miss the beginning of NASCAR playoffs with concussion-like symptoms, thereby creating a second open spot in the 16-driver field for Saturday’s regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway.
On Thursday, 23XI Racing withdrew its medical waiver that was keeping Busch’s spot in the playoffs.
Busch, 44, has been out since he crashed in qualifying at Pocono Raceway on July 23.
“As much as I wanted and hoped to be able to get back in the No. 45 car to make a playoff run with our team, it’s still not the right time for me,” Busch wrote Thursday on Twitter. “In addition to not being cleared to return to racing, I know that I am not ready to be back in the car.
“I respect the sport of NASCAR, my fellow drivers and the fans too much to take up a playoff spot if I know I can’t compete for a championship this season. The decision was not an easy one, but I know it is the right thing to do.
“I will continue to take time to heal and strengthen as I prepare to be back in the car and will do all I can to help 23XI continue the success we have had this season.
https://t.co/Lt5hg7Lyzg pic.twitter.com/aa7xy2dVoh
— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) August 25, 2022
Busch, 44, is in the midst of his 22nd full-time season as a NASCAR driver. He was the series racing champion in 2004 and won the Daytona 500 in 2017.
With Busch out of the mix, Ryan Blaney maintains his hold on one playoff spot via points. In turn, Martin Truex Jr. goes from 25 points below the line to holding the 16th provisional playoff spot.
“Kurt Busch has managed this difficult situation like the champion that he is,” NASCAR released in a statement. “Working closely with his doctors, every decision made has been in the best interest of his health, his competitors and the sport. Kurt has NASCAR’s full support as he continues to heal, and we look forward to seeing him return to the race car.
“23XI Racing has informed NASCAR that it is withdrawing Kurt’s medical waiver request. Per the NASCAR rule book, a spot has been made available for the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. The No. 45 car will continue to compete for the 2022 Owner Championship.”
Xfinity Series driver Ty Gibbs, the grandson of Joe Gibbs, has filled in for Busch in his absence.
The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs begin Sept. 4 with the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington.
–Field Level Media