Former NASCAR Driver Hints at Return to Racing Despite Criminal DWI Plea

Former NASCAR Champion Kurt Busch has hinted that he could return to racing despite recently pleading guilty to driving while intoxicated (DWI).

Arrested in Iredell County late at night on Aug. 13, 2024, Busch’s crimes included going 45 mph and driving under the influence of alcohol. Busch shared the following at the time of his arrest:

“I am very disappointed in myself and I apologize to my family, racing family and fans.

“I will work with authorities to rectify the situation and work with the county to make the area a safer place in the future.”

A. Report from Iredell Free News He also stated at the time:

“Deputy Zalepka reported that Busch, who lived on Pine Meadow Lane in Mooresville, ‘had red glassy eyes’ and ‘a strong odor of alcohol on his breath.’ ‘Deputy admitted to drinking before driving away,'” according to court records.

In response to the charges, Busch entered a guilty plea to DWI. As a result, he was given a 60-day suspended sentence and placed on unsupervised probation for a year. The court also required him to complete 24 hours of community service in addition to paying the relevant fee. As part of these legal repercussions, Busch lost his driver’s license and will need to obtain a temporary driving permit.

Evaluating the incident, Busch also explained that his goal is to eventually return to racing while addressing the situation. He explained:

“I take full responsibility for my recent DWI arrest and deeply regret my actions. I voluntarily completed the pre-trial evaluation and followed all recommendations prior to my court date. I am committed to making amends, ensuring this never happens again, and returning. Thank you to everyone who supported me competing with a renewed focus .”

FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass shared the news on social media:

“Like TMZ Kurt Busch reportedly received a 60-day suspended sentence with one year of unsupervised probation after pleading guilty to DWI this week. “He was arrested in NC on August 14 after being stopped for speeding and a breath test determined his BAC was 0.17.”

Although Busch has acknowledged his desire to return to NASCAR racing, the details of his potential return remain unclear. Speculation has increased regarding potential roles at his previous team, 23XI Racing, or perhaps another position in a lower-tier series. As of now, neither Busch’s sponsors, 23XI Racing nor Monster Energy, have made a statement regarding his future involvement with the team.