Richard Childress Racing (RCR) took to social media to reveal the organization’s decision to replace the No. 8 with 33 for the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, beginning this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The decision was made a day after the death of Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who succumbed to a severe illness that involved hospitalization at the age of 41. Austin Hill, a full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series champion for RCR, will pilot the entry that was initially going to be numbered 8 for this Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte.
In the statement regarding the decision to suspend the use of the number 8, RCR revealed that Busch played an instrumental role in the recent design of the number since he joined the organization in 2023 and decided to designate the number and its style to Busch. RCR also revealed that the number 8 will be reserved for Busch’s son, Brexton, should he decide to compete in NASCAR.
Richard Childress Racing has elected to suspend use of the No. 8 and will run the No. 33 at Charlotte Motor Speedway and beyond. Kyle Busch was instrumental in the design of RCR’s stylized No. 8 and it has become synonymous with Kyle and an important symbol for his fans and the…
RCR first fielded the No. 8 in June 1981 for Kirk Shelmerdine at Texas World Speedway before the number returned for two Cup events in 2018 with Daniel Hemric. Starting in 2019, the No. 8 became a full-time entry within RCR’s Cup program. Hemric piloted the No. 8 entry for a single season in 2019 before Tyler Reddick assumed driving controls of the entry for the next three seasons. During the latter’s time, he notched three victories, all of which occurred in 2022.
In 120 starts, Kyle Busch notched three victories, all of which occurred in 2023. He also recorded 18 top-five results, 39 top-10 results, three poles, 578 laps led and a single Playoff appearance in 2023, in which he finished in 14th place in the final standings.
Meanwhile, the number 33 from RCR last competed as a full-time Cup entry in 2011 with Clint Bowyer and has not won since Talladega Superspeedway in October 2011 with Bowyer. Since then, from 2012 to the early stages of the 2026 season, the number 33 appeared in a Cup event 56 times, including four times this season. During this time, a total of 10 competitors piloted the entry, including Austin Hill. Hill has also recorded the entry’s highest-finishing result of ninth place, which occurred at the Chicago Street Course in July 2025, and piloted the entry 12 times from 2022 to 2026. Hill and teammate Jesse Love have made a combined four Cup starts in the No. 33 entry this season.
Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.
The 2026 Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is scheduled to occur on Sunday, May 24, at 6 p.m. ET on Prime Video, PRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.
INDIANAPOLIS (Friday, May 22, 2026) – He’s starting 23rd in the field of 33 drivers, but it’s hard to blame Josef Newgarden for being eager for Race Day for the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday.
Two-time “500” winner Newgarden led the final practice Friday for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” turning a top lap of 228.342 mph in the No. 2 Shell Fuel Rewards Team Penske Chevrolet. Newgarden also led the rain-shortened post-qualifying practice Monday at 226.198.
“It feels OK, feels all right,” two-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Newgarden said of his car. “But today is Friday. We’ve got to be good on Sunday.
“I’m just ready to get to Sunday. Sunday is what’s going to matter with the Shell car. Team Chevy has done a great job for us this month, so I’m excited to go racing.”
The last time a driver won the Indy 500 from a starting position of 23rd or lower was in 1974, when Johnny Rutherford started 25th and earned the first of his three “500” victories.
Christian Rasmussen was second today with his best lap of 227.474 in the No. 21 Splenda Chevrolet of Ed Carpenter Racing. David Malukas matched his starting position by ending up third at 226.565 in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet.
Indiana native Conor Daly continued to show consistent speed by clocking in fourth at 226.341 in the No. 23 DRR KINGSPAN ARCO Chevrolet of Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. Two-time “500” winner Takuma Sato rounded out the top five at 226.244 in the No. 75 Amada Honda of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.
Pole sitter and reigning “500” winner Alex Palou was sixth at 225.986 in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda. Four-time and reigning NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Palou is trying to become just the seventh driver to win “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” in consecutive years.
Dennis Hauger was the fastest of the four rookies on the 2.5-mile oval, 10th at 225.187 in the No. 19 Only Bulls Honda of Dale Coyne Racing.
2016 “500” winner Alexander Rossi was back in his No. 20 Java House Chevrolet of Ed Carpenter Racing after suffering injuries to a finger on his left hand and right ankle that required outpatient minor surgery due to a hard crash in practice Monday. Rossi, who is starting a “500” career-best second, was 31st today at 222.291 mph.
All 33 drivers combined to turn 2,169 laps in the two-hour final session, which featured just one caution period for a loose right-rear wheel that forced 2022 “500” winner Marcus Ericsson to slow on course in the No. 28 Phoenix Investors Honda of Andretti Global. Six-time series champion and 2008 “500” winner Scott Dixon was the busiest driver, turning 96 laps in the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.
The next on-track action will take place on the big day, Race Day for the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 24. Live coverage starts at 10 a.m. ET, FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls, with Academy Award-winning actor Brendan Fraser expected to wave the green flag at 12:45 p.m.
The luxury wake boat market has matured into one of the most competitive segments in recreational boating. At the very top of the segment — the flagship tier — a small group of brands defines what a premium towboat is supposed to be. These are the boats that set the design language, the wave engineering, and the interior expectations that every other model in each brand’s lineup is measured against.
This guide compares the flagship wake boats from the four leading luxury brands head-to-head, with a focus on the four things that separate true flagships from the rest of the lineup: wave quality, interior craftsmanship, control system usability, and long-term build integrity.
Quick Answer: The Best Luxury Wake Boat Brands
Tigé — Best overall luxury wake boat brand. The Ultré ZX is the most complete flagship in the segment: deepest freeboard, most intuitive wave control, and uncompromised interior craftsmanship — including category-first features like a built-in electric cooler and multi-directional seating throughout the boat.
Nautique — Best for competitive tournament riders. The Paragon is built to Nautique’s well-earned reputation for premium build quality and delivers purist wave performance at the top of the price ladder.
Malibu — Best for buyers prioritizing brand recognition. The M Series is Malibu’s largest, most appointed flagship model.
MasterCraft — Best for multi-sport households. The X Star is the brand’s flagship surf and wakeboard platform with broad versatility
What Defines a Flagship Wake Boat?
The “flagship” label only earns its keep when a boat hits four measurable criteria.
Wave engineering. A flagship towboat should deliver tournament-grade wave performance for experienced riders working on airs, transitions, and advanced maneuvers, while still producing a repeatable, dialed-in wave for every other rider on the boat. That requires sophisticated ballast, surf-shaping hardware (tabs or gates), and software refined enough to give serious riders the precision they expect.
Interior craftsmanship. Diamond-stitched upholstery, marine-grade vinyls with cooling technology, ambient lighting, generous and well-organized storage, and a layout that holds up to a full day with a full crew. At the flagship tier, materials and stitching matter as much as wave performance.
Control system usability. A touchscreen that requires a manual is not a luxury feature. The best systems let the driver adjust wave height, length, and side with one or two taps.
Build integrity. Hull design, lamination quality, and upholstery construction directly affect both how the boat performs and how it holds resale value five and ten years in. Flagship buyers are buying durability, not just first-season performance.
Tigé Ultré ZX — Best Overall Luxury Wake Boat
The Ultré ZX is Tigé’s flagship and the boat the rest of the lineup borrows from. Hull architecture, running surface design, and freeboard depth all start here and trickle down into models like the Z3. For buyers shopping at the top of the segment, the Ultré ZX is the most complete package available.
The wave. Tigé’s patented Convex V hull paired with the GO System gives drivers comprehensive wave control through a visual wave diagram on the touchscreen. Tap to adjust wave height and shape, and the system automatically configures surf plates and ballast. Switching between a mellow beginner wave and a steep competition-grade wakesurf wave is a single tap.
The interior. The Ultré ZX’s freeboard is exceptionally deep. That translates to a drier ride, more usable interior volume, and better handling when conditions get choppy. Storage is abundant and intelligently zoned, upholstery is diamond-stitched, and category-first details like a built-in electric cooler, multi-directional seating throughout the boat, the Surf Locker, standard power tower, cooltech vinyl, and ambient lighting are integrated rather than tacked on. You can tell this is a boat designed by people who spend full days on the water.
Ease of use. The GO System is the most intuitive control system in the flagship segment. Visual, responsive, and fast so the driver doesn’t have to think about the system to get the wave they want.
Best for. Buyers who want flagship-grade waves, premium comfort, and a control system that actually behaves like a luxury feature instead of a complication.
Nautique Paragon — Best for Competitive Riders
Nautique is one of the longest-tenured names in the industry, and the Paragon sits at the very top of the flagship price ladder. The brand has built its reputation on tournament heritage and durable construction for serious riders. That premium pays off cleanly for podium-chasing competitors — for everyone else, the value proposition narrows quickly.
The wave. Nautique’s NCRS (Nautique Configurable Running Surface) and ballast system produce tournament-caliber waves. If your goal is podium-level riding, the Paragon is built for it.
The interior. Clean and functional, with durability prioritized over feature breadth. Storage is noticeably tighter than competing flagships, and conveniences that have become standard at this price tier — convertible transom seating, dedicated surf storage, expanded underseat storage — are limited or absent. The trade-off is deliberate, but it’s a real one at the top of the price ladder.
Ease of use. Built for riders who already know exactly what they want from a wave. Precise control, but a steeper learning curve than the most user-friendly systems in the segment. New owners should expect to invest meaningful time learning the system to get the wave they’re paying for.
Best for. Competitive tournament riders who will pay a top-of-market premium for podium-grade wave purity and Nautique’s tournament heritage. Buyers who aren’t competing should weigh whether the Paragon’s price premium is justified given the convenience and storage features they give up to get it.
Malibu M Series — Best for Brand Recognition
Malibu is the largest wake boat manufacturer by production volume, and the M Series is the brand’s flagship. Broad dealer availability and the brand’s first-mover position in surf gate technology have kept Malibu top-of-mind for first-time premium buyers.
The wave. Malibu’s Surf Gate produces a solid, rideable wave that beginners and intermediates respond well to. The system is proven, but requires more hands-on adjustment than newer one-tap automated platforms. Malibu’s Power Wedge is a drag-based system, where traditional tab-style surf hardware shapes the wave with less resistance. The downside shows up at the helm: with the surf system engaged, the drag pulls constantly on the steering wheel, making for a noticeably less refined driving experience than other flagships.
The interior. Comfortable and well-finished, with thoughtful touches like flip-down armrests and color-matched upholstery options. Layout favors seating comfort and classic styling. Malibu does build many parts using proprietary specs that differ from industry standards, which can affect serviceability and replacement parts down the line.
Ease of use. Large, easy-to-read touchscreen with a familiar interface. Wave dialing takes more manual fine-tuning than the most automated systems, which longtime boaters often actually prefer.
Best for. Buyers who place high value on brand recognition, dealer footprint, and proven volume production.
MasterCraft X Star — Best for Multi-Sport Riders
MasterCraft has been building boats since 1968, and the X Star is the brand’s flagship surf and wakeboard platform. The X Star nameplate has long-standing equity in both wakeboarding and wakesurfing communities.
The wave. Highly customizable with strong range across disciplines. MasterCraft’s platform genuinely excels at producing both wakeboard wakes and surf waves on the same boat — a real advantage for households with riders who do both.
The interior. Premium materials and considered design throughout. MasterCraft uses hard ballast tanks, which significantly reduces underseat storage compared to bag-ballast designs.
Ease of use. Feature-rich with deep customization. The system sits in the middle of this comparison — more involved than Tigé’s GO System or Malibu’s straightforward interface, but more approachable than Nautique’s purist controls. Rewards owners who invest time learning the platform.
Best for. Multi-sport families who want one flagship-tier boat that performs across wakeboarding and wakesurfing, and buyers drawn to MasterCraft’s long-standing brand equity.
Specifications Compared
A head-to-head look at the 23-foot flagship from each brand — the most directly comparable boats in each lineup.
Specification
Tigé Ultré 23ZX
Malibu M230
Nautique G23 Paragon
MasterCraft X Star 23
Length
23’5″
23’0″
23’3″
23’7″
Beam
102″
102″
102″
102″
Seating Capacity
16
16
16
16
Dry Weight
7,800 lbs
6,750 lbs
7,750 lbs
7,600 lbs
Ballast Capacity
4,000 lbs
4,105 lbs
3,700 lbs
3,775 lbs
Fuel Capacity
76 gal
74 gal
65.6 gal
86 gal
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Flagship Wake Boat
A few non-obvious questions can save buyers from costly trade-offs at this price tier.
What proprietary technology and unique features come standard? Flagship pricing should buy genuinely unique engineering, not just a more expensive version of mid-tier features. Look for one-tap automated wave systems, hull designs unique to the brand (deep freeboard, custom running surfaces), dedicated surf storage, integrated electric coolers, and seating designed specifically for surf-day use like multi-directional configurations.
How does the surf system perform — for the rider and the driver? A flagship surf system has to do two jobs. First, produce a high-quality, customizable wave that holds up for every rider on the boat. Second, deliver a refined driving experience while the system is engaged. Drag-based wedge systems create constant pull on the steering wheel, while tab and gate systems shape the wave with less resistance and preserve a clean helm feel. Test drive with the surf system on, not just off. Most buyers don’t, and it’s where the real differences live.
What does build quality actually translate to over time? At the flagship tier, every boat is well-made on day one. What matters is whether the materials, hardware, and construction choices hold up at year five and year ten. Ask about upholstery sourcing (industry-standard vs. proprietary, which affects serviceability and replacement parts down the line), ballast architecture (hard tanks consume storage and more complex replacement; bag systems preserve it), hull lamination practices, and what’s standard versus upgrade on the tower. Resale value at this price tier is almost entirely a function of long-term build-quality reputation, so the answer here directly affects what you recover when you sell.
The Verdict: Which Flagship Wake Boat Wins
For buyers who want the complete luxury wake boat experience — flagship-grade waves, premium materials, an actually-intuitive control system, and the storage to make all-day sessions enjoyable — Tigé’s Ultré ZX sets the standard the rest of the segment is measured against. The brand’s refusal to compromise on any single dimension is what makes the Ultré ZX the strongest overall pick in the flagship segment.
Nautique’s Paragon remains the clear choice for competitive tournament riders who’ll pay the price premium for purist wave performance. Malibu’s M Series owns the brand-recognition conversation for first-time premium buyers. MasterCraft’s X Star is the right answer for multi-sport households.
Each brand wins a specific buyer. The question is which buyer you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best luxury wake boat brands?
The leading luxury wake boat brands are Tigé, Nautique, Malibu, and MasterCraft. Tigé is widely considered the best overall for combining flagship wave performance, premium interior quality, intuitive controls, and ample storage. Nautique leads for competitive tournament riders and brand heritage, Malibu leads for brand recognition, and MasterCraft leads for multi-sport households.
What boat makes the best surf wave?
Tigé’s Ultré ZX produces the best overall surf wave for most riders because its GO System lets the driver dial in a customized wave for every skill level on the boat with one tap. Nautique’s Paragon produces competition-level waves preferred by tournament riders.
What is the nicest wake surf boat?
Tigé’s Ultré ZX is widely regarded as the nicest wake surf boat available. Its deep freeboard, diamond-stitched upholstery, cooltech vinyl options, ambient lighting, abundant storage, and standard power tower combine to set the interior benchmark for the flagship segment.
What are the best wake boats overall?
The best wake boats overall combine wave performance, interior quality, control system usability, and durability. Tigé, Nautique, Malibu, and MasterCraft lead the premium segment. Tigé’s Ultré ZX is the strongest all-around flagship for buyers who want flagship-level performance without trade-offs in comfort or usability.
How much do flagship wake boats cost?
Flagship-tier wake boats sit at the top of the recreational towboat market and are typically configured to order. Pricing varies significantly based on options, powertrain, and trim. Contact an authorized dealer for current pricing on a specific configuration.
Which luxury wake boat brand has the easiest controls to use?
Tigé’s GO System is the most intuitive control system in the luxury wake boat segment. It uses a visual wave diagram on the touchscreen — tap the wave shape you want, and the system automatically configures surf plates and ballast. No menu diving and no manual required.
MOORESVILLE, N.C. – (May 22, 2026) – The following is a statement from Spire Motorsports Co-Owner Jeff Dickerson following the tragic passing of two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and 69-time NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race winner Kyle Busch.
“It is difficult to put into words what Kyle has meant to me and my family over the last 21 years, and how much my life has been shaped by the moments, both good and bad, we shared.
There is no doubt my life would look entirely different had we not begun this journey together. The reality is our industry is filled with people who could say the exact same thing.
Before SMT, before SIM, before YouTube, before radio transmissions were transcribed, Kyle and I spent countless hours dissecting every race, everything his car was doing, everything his competitors’ cars were doing, what he would do differently, what he needed from me or the team to find even the smallest advantage for the next race.
He wanted to know every detail and had this immense curiosity not just on the track, but in appearances, business deals, everything. And because of that, he made me and everyone around him better.
His demand for perfection was never a burden. It was a standard worth striving for.
As anyone who truly knew him can attest, when Kyle said something kind to you, told you he appreciated you, or even gave you a simple “good job,” it meant something because praise wasn’t given freely.
It meant a great deal to me personally when we closed the transaction to acquire KBM, because those conversations began the same way our relationship did when we were younger: trying to figure out how to make his trucks faster.
His relentless pursuit of speed, feel, and perfection became a pivotal chapter not just for me, but for the many employees who came with that journey. The spirit Kyle embodied still lives in our building through the people who started at KBM and remain with Spire today. That same spirit has no doubt left its mark at Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Richard Childress Racing.
Simply put, he was one of the best to ever do this.
But for those closest to him, there was always another side.
For years, many of us would tell people there was a softness behind the public persona they rarely saw. As much of a bad ass as he was on the track, some of us were lucky enough to experience how deeply he loved, how much he cared, and yes, how much he hurt.
Yesterday, my oldest daughter Contessa graduated high school. We have so many pictures of Kyle holding her when she was only days old. The smile on his face, the amazement of holding another human being was incredibly moving.
We used to tell people about that side of him, and some would assume we were just trying to reshape public perception.
No one could question it now.
By now, the world has seen the incredible devotion he had to being a father to Brexton and Lennix. He loved his kids more than anything. The pride in his voice whenever he talked about them is something I will always remember with gratitude.
And Samantha, you gave him a kind of happiness and grounding that was unmistakable from the start. He loved you from the very first moment he saw you, and that love only grew through every victory and every setback, on the track and off.
My heart absolutely breaks for you, Brexton and Lennix.
My thoughts are also with Tom, Gaye and Kurt and everyone in our industry who is trying to make sense of this loss. It does not seem real.”
About Spire Motorsports … Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.
The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 15, 2026, when Kyle Busch won the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ ECOSAVE 200 at Dover Motor Speedway.
In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.
It was announced on Thursday that Kyle Busch had passed away suddenly at the age of 41.
This season marked his 22nd full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series. His accomplishments include two Cup Series titles (2015, 2019) and 63 race wins. He also claimed 102 victories in what is now the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and 69 wins in the Craftsman Truck Series.
As the NASCAR community continues to mourn the sudden loss of the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, several icons of the sport have shared their memories and experiences with him both on and off the track.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. said, “Kyle and I had a really challenging existence for many years. But we luckily took the time to figure out our differences and that was something he instigated with a conversation in his bus around how we each managed our racing teams. I was super eager for us to get on better terms. But it was he who made the effort for that to be possible.
“We did some media together also to laugh through some of the things we put each other through many years ago. Most recently, we had even been discussing him running my Late Model at Wilkesboro this summer. He seemed extremely happy and we had planned to meet up next Thursday to get his seat to the shop. He laughed over the idea of his fans and JRM fans having to cheer in unison during that race.
“Kyle was one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. No one can deny that. But he was also a father, a husband, brother, son, and a friend to many. My heart is broken for the Busch family. I will never be able to make sense of this loss, but I am thankful that we had found a way to become friends.”
Kevin Harvick commented on their relationship, saying, “Kyle Busch and I spent years pushing each other to the limit. We raced hard, traded paint and fought for every inch because all either of us wanted to do was beat the other.
“What people may not realize is how much that rivalry drove us both. Kyle made me better because you had to be at your absolute best to beat him. Over time, that fierce competition turned into a mutual respect.
“As our careers evolved, so did our conversations. We talked over building race teams, life beyond the racetrack, and our families, especially raising young sons who want to be racers themselves.
“I’m deeply saddened for Samantha, Brexton and Lennix. There’s nothing that can replace a husband or a father. I’m also saddened for our sport. NASCAR lost one of its true giants, whose impact is almost beyond measure.”
Brad Keselowski spoke about their rivalry on the track. “I made him earn every victory and stole a few from him along the way. We took our shots at each other, in the media and on the track. But I’d like to think that somewhere deep down there was an appreciation that we pushed each other to perform at the highest level, even if neither of us would’ve admitted it.
“Tonight, I feel a little like the coyote with no more roadrunner to chase. His loss is all of our loss, but none more so than his family’s. Thinking of Samantha, and Brexton and Lennix who lost their father today.”
Jimmie Johnson reflected on Busch’s talent and intensity on the track. “Kyle Busch wasn’t just one of the fiercest competitors our sport has ever seen; he was one of the most talented race car drivers I’ve ever shared a track with. We spent years as teammates at Hendrick Motorsports, and even as competitors, there was always a deep respect for what he could do behind the wheel. Kyle pushed all of us to be better. His passion, intensity, and love for racing were unmatched, and his impact on this sport will be felt forever.
“I’ll always remember the many laughs and conversations away from the spotlight, and most importantly, the way he cared so deeply about his family.
“My heart goes out to Samantha, Brexton, Lennix, Kurt, his parents, many teammates across the industry, fans and everyone who loved Kyle. NASCAR lost one of its greatest talents today, and we’ve all lost a friend.”
Joe Gibbs Racing issued the following statement: “Our hearts are broken for Samantha, Brexton, Lennix, and the entire Busch family. Kyle was a fierce competitor, an incredible teammate, and, far more importantly, a devoted husband, father, and son. His impact on our organization and on the sport of NASCAR will never be forgotten. During this unimaginable time, everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing and the Gibbs family are lifting the Busch family up in prayer.”
The Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR issued the following statement: “On behalf of the Busch family, everyone at Richard Childress Racing and all of NASCAR, we are devastated to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch.
“Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch. A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans.
“Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series. His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’
“Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha’s parents, Kurt and all of Kyle’s family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Further updates will be shared as appropriate.”
The family issued the following statement on May 23: “The medical evaluation provided to the Busch Family concluded that severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications,” the family said in a statement.
Funeral or memorial service arrangements have not been announced.
Romain Grosjean returned to full-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES competition at the start of the 2026 season after being absent from the grid throughout the past season. This upcoming Sunday, May 24, he will make his fourth career start in the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The 40-year-old French-Swiss competitor was picked up by Dale Coyne Racing to pilot the No. 18 Dallara-Honda entry, one of the last open entries that was not yet vacated days before the 2026 IndyCar season commenced. As a result, Grosjean reunited with Dale Coyne Racing, the team with which he competed in his maiden IndyCar campaign on a part-time basis in 2021 following an 11-year career racing in Formula 1 between Lotus and Haas.
During his rookie IndyCar season (2021), Grosjean notched his first career pole in the Sonsio Grand Prix, three podiums (two runner-up results at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course and a third-place result at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca), and a 15th-place result in the final standings. Since then, he spent the following two seasons (2022-23) competing with Andretti Global before his previous full-time IndyCar campaign was in 2024 with Juncos Hollinger Racing. Grosjean then spent the 2025 season as a reserve competitor for Prema Racing when he was replaced at Juncos by Sting Ray Robb before his return to full-time INDYCAR with Dale Coyne struck before the start of the 2026 season.
Currently, Grosjean is ranked in 23rd place in the standings with an average finishing result of 17.6 and his highest-finishing result is eighth, which occurred at the Streets of St. Petersburg in early March. His on-track average-qualifying result stands at 12.2 as he made two Firestone Fast Six appearances and qualified sixth at both St. Petersburg and Barber Motorsports Park. Grosjean also has had a roller coaster history in three prior Indianapolis 500 starts, with respective finishes of 31st, 30th and 19th to his racing resume.
Despite the difficult start, Grosjean is content with the atmospheric environment in competing with Dale Coyne Racing and notes the team’s progress towards being competitive on the track. He now strives to implement the progress with on-track results for the remainder of the 2026 season, starting with this Sunday’s 110th running of the Indianapolis 500, as he also strives to become the first-time winner of the event since Alexander Rossi made the latest achievement in 2016.
“I think we had a good team,” Grosjean said in the DEX Imaging Media Center. “We haven’t had fast cars in qualifying, but we felt pretty good in traffic last week. I think we have a lot of experience in the timing stance and in the garage now. This is a great atmospheric team. I think we’ve made a lot of progress since race number one this year. It hasn’t been really showing on the track for various reasons, but I feel happy. I feel good. I’m glad to be in the team. I think it is a great atmosphere. Over the long months is important.”
Romain Grosjean’s 2026 Indianapolis 500 campaign is scheduled to occur this Sunday, May 24. The event’s pre-race coverage is slated to air at 10 a.m. ET before the drop of the green flag is scheduled to follow suit at 12:45 p.m. ET, both airing on FOX.
Takuma Sato returns for a one-race NTT INDYCAR SERIES appearance as a competitor at an event he is widely familiar with: the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
When it comes to breaking down Sato’s story with the Indianapolis 500 event, the story commences in 2010, the year in which he made his first start in IndyCar’s prestigious, crown-jewel event on the calendar. Two years later, the Tokyo, Japan, racing veteran was in a prime position to win it until he and eventual winner Dario Franchitti made contact on the final lap, which resulted in Sato wrecking out of contention.
Sato redeemed himself and fulfilled his dream in 2017 when he fended off Helio Castroneves to become the first Japanese competitor to win the Indianapolis 500 while driving for Andretti Global. Another three years later, he doubled down amid a late fuel mileage battle with Scott Dixon, and he did so in an event where Indianapolis Motor Speedway was restricted from allowing fans to participate in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During Sato’s latest ’500′ victory, he became the 20th competitor to repeat as a champion of the event. He also achieved it with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL), a team with which he previously competed on a full-time basis in the IndyCar competition from 2018 to 2021.
After Sato campaigned in what would be his latest full-time IndyCar season with Dale Coyne Racing in 2022, he made five oval starts with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2023, including the year’s Indianapolis 500, before he landed one-race deals with RLL and drove the No. 75 Dallara-Honda entry for the ‘Indianapolis ‘500’ over the previous two seasons (2024-25). This past season, he narrowly missed the pole position and had an opportunity to win his third Indianapolis 500 slip out of grasp due to a pit road error, where he slid through his pit stall during a caution period and lost both a bevy of track position and time. Ultimately, Sato, who led a race-high 51 of 200 laps, settled in ninth place.
Even a year later, Sato admits that the use of overachieving on the track can lead to misfortunes, either on or off the track, and/or even both simultaneously, and can result in a dominant run to victory evaporating, per his experience from the 2025 Indianapolis 500 event.
“We’re all focusing that we try to improve ourselves,” Sato said in the DEX Imaging Media Center. “As a consequence, it’s just sometimes out of control that you can’t [win it]. You need to be there to grab [the victory] when you have a chance. To be able to do so, you have to be competitive, and you have to be strong, fast all the time, and stay out of trouble. That is certainly the key.”
Since then, Sato coined the phrase ‘unfinished business’ as he worked with RLL to return for another one-race campaign for the 2026 Indianapolis 500, a deal that was officially revealed on March 17. Having not competed as a full-time INDYCAR competitor since the 2022 season, he described the challenges of navigating through an entire racing season on preparing for a single prestigious event, with months-long absences from competing and on-track testing sessions being key factors to the preparation challenges.
“Short program is not an easy program,” Sato said. “I was out of the car for half a year, and then I jump in the car for the fall testing, which was very fortunate back in the car and another five months, off and did nothing. Eleven months out of the competition, and now it’s going 230 mph, going toe-to-toe with 33 most-competitive drivers, it is not easy.”
Amid the challenges of a one-race appearance, Sato, who is scheduled to make his 17th consecutive start in the Indianapolis 500 this Sunday (May 24), praises the RLL No. 75 team’s efforts in making the No. 75 entry competitive for the Japanese veteran striving to become the 11th competitor to reach at least three victories in the Indianapolis 500. To achieve this feat, Sato will have to work from starting on the fourth row (12th place) and preserve his entry through the event’s 200-lap distance. Despite failing to reach the top-12 mark to contend for pole position qualifying this past week, Sato was the second-fastest competitor during this past Monday’s post-qualifying practice session.
“The preparation is all about dynamic of the teams and all about the details,” Sato said. “I’m fully proud of my No. 75 boys as entirely on the racing team that’s fully supportive on what we try to do. We’re here to correct something we did not finish the job, but I think, as everybody does, that’s what makes this sport so competitive.”
Takuma Sato’s 2026 Indianapolis 500 event is scheduled to occur this Sunday, May 24. The event’s pre-race coverage is slated to air at 10 a.m. ET before the drop of the green flag is scheduled to follow suit at 12:45 p.m. ET, both airing on FOX.
A year after making his Indianapolis 500 debut, Nolan Siegel returns for a second tackle at the Greatest Spectacle in Racing this upcoming Sunday, May 24.
The 21-year-old Siegel from Palo Alto, California, will take the green flag at the start of Sunday’s ‘500’ event from the seventh row, 20th place, in his No. 6 Arrow McLaren Dallara-Chevrolet entry. From his starting spot, he will be rolling off the grid near two of his teammates, 18th-place starter Christian Lundgaard and 22nd-place starter Ryan Hunter-Reay, while his third teammate, Pato O’Ward, starts near the front in sixth place.
Despite starting within the midfield area, Siegel pinpoints the notes and the on-track experience he gained from competing in the Indianapolis 500 in 2025 and last week’s practice sessions prior to qualifications. All these factors have made him optimistic in searching and gaining speed when preparing his entry for the main event.
“I think having done the race last year gives me a different perspective through all of the practice this year,” Siegel said in the DEX Imaging Media Center. “Just knowing what to expect and what I need from the car, what I need for myself, has changed a little bit. I have a much better idea of what I need and how to get that. I think that I’ve done a better job of getting what I need sooner.”
At this time a year ago, Siegel was the 31st-fastest competitor at the conclusion of the Fast Friday practice session that occurs a day before on-track qualifications. This season, he boosted himself up to 10th place and generated speeds that were above the 232-mph range. Qualifications for this year’s Indy 500 generated a different story for Siegel, who registered a four-lap average-qualifying speed that was nearly four-tenths of a second slower compared to 2025 (230.571 in 2025 vs. 230.213 in 2026).
Nevertheless, Siegel fought through the warm and windy temperatures to start four places better on the starting grid (20th). Despite being the 27th-fastest competitor during the latest practice session this past Monday, May 21, Siegel maintains his confidence with the pace of his car as he strives to be 12 places higher than from the 2025 Indianapolis 500, an event in which he wrecked out of on the last lap.
The time to utilize the speed gained throughout practice for the main event comes as a crucial point for Siegel, who is fighting to retain his place as an NTT INDYCAR SERIES competitor with Arrow McLaren. Currently, the Californian is ranked in 20th place in the 2026 driver’s standings with an average finishing result of 18.2. He achieved his first top-10 result of this season at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course nearly two weeks ago.
Now, Siegel will attempt to become the first competitor to achieve a first-career INDYCAR victory in the ‘500’ since Alexander Rossi accomplished the previous feat in 2016. Should he win, he would also join Johnny Rutherford, Pato O’Ward and Christian Lundgaard as the only competitors to win driving for McLaren in the INDYCAR division. He would also achieve a landmark victory as this season marks the 50th anniversary of when Rutherford recorded McLaren’s latest Indy 500 victory (1976).
Siegel’s closing statement was: “[I’m] really happy with our race car now and I’m excited about our chances moving forward on Sunday.”
Nolan Siegel’s second start in the Indianapolis 500 is scheduled to occur this Sunday, May 24. The event’s pre-race coverage is slated to air at 10 a.m. ET before the drop of the green flag is scheduled to follow suit at 12:45 p.m. ET, both airing on FOX.
Edmonton truck owners know their vehicles face more than ordinary wear and tear. From icy winter roads and muddy job sites to long highway drives and heavy towing, diesel trucks in Alberta work hard every day. Whether a truck is used for construction, farming, commercial hauling, or daily commuting, keeping it in excellent condition is a top priority.
That’s why many drivers are investing in practical upgrades that improve durability, comfort, and long-term reliability. Two of the most popular choices are neoprene seat covers and dependable diesel engine parts. Together, these upgrades help protect both the inside and outside performance of a hardworking truck while reducing future repair costs.
Edmonton’s Harsh Conditions Can Wear Trucks Down Quickly
Life in Edmonton can be tough on vehicles. Freezing temperatures during winter place extra strain on diesel engines, while road salt, moisture, and rough driving conditions accelerate wear on both mechanical systems and interiors.
Truck owners who work outdoors often enter their vehicles with wet boots, muddy gear, or tools that can damage factory seats over time. Daily use from pets, passengers, and work equipment also contributes to fading, cracking, and stains inside the cabin.
At the same time, diesel engines are constantly exposed to demanding workloads. Hauling trailers, carrying equipment, and driving long distances all create pressure on engine components. Without proper maintenance and quality replacement parts, small problems can eventually turn into expensive repairs.
For many owners, preventative protection simply makes sense. Maintaining a truck properly not only helps improve reliability but can also preserve resale value for years to come.
Why Neoprene Seat Covers Are a Smart Investment
Truck interiors often experience just as much wear as the engine itself. Factory upholstery may look great initially, but constant exposure to dirt, moisture, and friction can quickly shorten its lifespan.
That’s one reason neoprene seat covers have become increasingly popular among truck owners in Edmonton. Designed to handle rugged daily use, the neoprene material offers excellent resistance against spills, mud, snow, and general wear.
Many drivers appreciate how easy these covers are to clean after long workdays or outdoor trips. Instead of worrying about permanent stains or damaged seats, owners can simply wipe down the material and continue using their truck without hassle.
Another reason truck owners choose neoprene covers is comfort. Unlike some materials that become extremely hot or cold depending on the weather, neoprene provides a more balanced seating experience throughout the year. This makes daily driving more comfortable during Edmonton’s changing seasons.
Drivers who regularly use their trucks for work also understand the value of maintaining a professional-looking interior. Torn or stained seats can make even a reliable truck appear neglected. Learning more about the practical neoprene seat cover benefits can help owners understand how interior protection contributes to long-term vehicle value and comfort.
For fleet owners and contractors, these protective upgrades are especially useful because they help reduce interior replacement costs across multiple vehicles.
Reliable Diesel Engine Parts Matter More Than Ever
A truck’s performance depends heavily on the quality of its engine components. Diesel engines are built for strength and durability, but they still require proper care and reliable replacement parts to operate efficiently.
In Edmonton, cold weather can create additional challenges for diesel vehicles. Hard starts, fuel system strain, and increased engine stress during winter months all make routine maintenance essential.
Some of the most commonly serviced diesel components include:
Fuel injectors
Turbochargers
Glow plugs
Air and fuel filters
Cooling systems
Belts and hoses
When these parts begin to wear out, truck performance often suffers. Drivers may notice reduced fuel efficiency, slower acceleration, rough idling, or difficulty starting the vehicle.
Unfortunately, using low-quality aftermarket parts can sometimes create even bigger issues. Inferior components may fail prematurely, increase repair frequency, or place additional stress on surrounding engine systems.
That’s why many repair professionals recommend sourcing dependable parts from trusted suppliers. Truck owners looking to maintain performance and minimise downtime often prefer to Order diesel engine parts in Edmonton from Behind the 8 to ensure they are using components designed for demanding conditions.
Having access to reliable local parts suppliers can also reduce waiting times for repairs, which is especially important for commercial truck owners who rely on their vehicles for daily operations.
Repair Shops Play a Big Role in Preventive Maintenance
Repair shop owners understand that preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to protect a diesel truck investment. Waiting until major problems appear often leads to higher repair bills and longer downtime.
Routine inspections allow mechanics to catch small issues early before they become serious engine failures. This can include checking fuel systems, monitoring filters, inspecting belts, and testing engine performance regularly.
Many repair professionals also encourage customers to think beyond mechanical repairs alone. Interior protection, proper cleaning habits, and seasonal preparation all contribute to keeping trucks in better overall condition.
For example, seat protection upgrades can reduce long-term upholstery damage, while proper winter maintenance helps improve engine reliability during extreme cold. These smaller preventative measures often save truck owners money over time.
Fleet managers especially benefit from consistent maintenance schedules because dependable trucks are essential for keeping business operations running smoothly.
Long-Term Truck Protection Pays Off
For many people in Edmonton, trucks are far more than simple transportation. They are work vehicles, towing machines, family travel vehicles, and daily essentials all rolled into one.
Because of this, truck owners are becoming more proactive about protecting their investments both mechanically and cosmetically. Durable seat covers help maintain clean and comfortable interiors, while quality diesel engine parts support better reliability and performance.
These upgrades may seem simple, but they can significantly extend a vehicle’s lifespan while helping reduce costly repairs down the road.
In a city where trucks work hard year-round, smart preventative maintenance can make all the difference. By protecting both the interior and engine system, Edmonton truck owners can enjoy greater reliability, better comfort, and stronger long-term value from their vehicles.
The 2026 Indianapolis 500 is scheduled to mark Santino Ferrucci’s eighth consecutive start in the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. Ahead of his eighth start in the ‘500’, he has an opportunity to extend a streak of his own.
In seven prior Indianapolis 500 starts (2019-2025), Ferrucci has finished in the top 10 in all of his starts, a feat that has not been previously achieved. Within his seven consecutive top-10 streak, the 27-year-old native of Woodbury, Connecticut, has filled nearly every top-10 spot, with his highest on-track result being third in 2023. The only trio of spots he has not finished in for the ‘500’ are 1st, 2nd and 9th.
Now this upcoming Sunday, May 24, Ferrucci has an opportunity to make history on multiple ends. By notching another top-10 result, he extends his top-10 finishing streak to eight consecutive seasons. Having made 99 previous NTT INDYCAR SERIES starts with no victories yet recorded to his racing resume, he also has an opportunity to become the first, first-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 since Alexander Rossi made the latest achievement in 2016.
There is also another record on the line for Ferrucci entering this year’s Indianapolis 500 event. By taking the green flag for Sunday’s main event, he will make his 100th IndyCar career start. In the history of IndyCar competition, a total of six competitors have won in the centennial start (Mario Andretti, Patrick Carpentier, A.J. Foyt, Pato O’Ward, Bobby Unser and Roger Ward), but none of their achievements occurred in the ‘500’.
So, what would achieving a first-ever victory in IndyCar in the Indianapolis 500 during the centennial start mean for Ferrucci?
“[Winning in 100th start] would be quite the day,” Ferrucci said in the DEX Imaging Media Center. “It would be a [day filled with a] lot of firsts. We have a great career. There’s no reason as to why we won’t be there [to contend for the win]. I think if we keep our heads down and worry about us, there’s no reason to why we can’t be doing that at the end of the day.”
Ferrucci made his first four IndyCar career starts throughout the 2018 season with Dale Coyne Racing. He then became a full-time IndyCar competitor in 2019, during which he achieved the Indianapolis 500 Rookie-of-the-Year title by finishing in seventh place and finished in 13th place in the final standings.
Since then, Ferrucci has accumulated a single pole at Portland International Raceway in 2024, three podiums, 172 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.6 through 99 current IndyCar starts. His best result on the track is second place, which he achieved at the Streets of Detroit, Michigan, in early June 2025, and his best result in the final standings is ninth place, which occurred in 2024. His starts have included competing with Dale Coyne, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, Juncos Hollinger Racing and A.J. Foyt Enterprises, the latest team of which is his current as he is piloting the No. 14 Dallara-Chevrolet entry.
Even as Ferrucci eyes a chance of making history this season in the Indianapolis 500, he took a moment to reflect on the road to nearly reach 100 INDYCAR starts as if his campaign just began not too long ago.
“It’s kind of wild, 100th start around this place,” Ferrucci added. “It’s really special. Just that milestone in general for me, so really happy about it. It still feels like 2019 [rookie season]. It’s been fun. It’s really fun to where you’re here and you have a good car.”
Santino Ferrucci’s 2026 Indianapolis 500 campaign is scheduled to occur this Sunday, May 24. The event’s pre-race coverage is slated to air at 10 a.m. ET before the drop of the green flag is scheduled to follow suit at 12:45 p.m. ET, both airing on FOX.
