Who could have predicted that two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch would face such a brutal slump in 2024? After leaving Joe Gibbs Racing, Busch had a respectable 2023 season, but this year turned into a nightmare. Not only did Rowdy fail to win a single race, but his 19-year streak of securing at least one victory per season also came to an abrupt end. For a driver of Busch’s caliber, it was a gut-wrenching blow.
As NASCAR rolls into 2025, Busch is gearing up for another shot at redemption. While keeping himself busy with midget racing in the off-season, the Clash at Bowman Gray is already on his radar. Yet, a dark cloud looms over his chances. If history is any indication, Busch’s record on short tracks makes his road to recovery an uphill battle.
The Clash at Bowman Gray: A Daunting Challenge for Rowdy
Short tracks have become a thorn in Busch’s side in recent years. Since 2021, the Richard Childress Racing (RCR) driver has gone winless in 22 short-track races. His average finishing position on these circuits is a dismal 17.5, with only two top-5 finishes in that stretch. With Bowman Gray set to host the first race of the 2025 NASCAR season, Busch’s performance on short ovals doesn’t inspire confidence.
Adding to his woes is NASCAR’s revamped short-track racing package, which has drawn heavy criticism from both fans and drivers. Busch himself didn’t mince words, quipping, “I didn’t think we could make it worse, but by golly, we did.”
Compounding the challenge is Denny Hamlin, Busch’s former teammate and a proven short-track maestro. Hamlin dominated in 2024, winning the Clash at the LA Coliseum and securing victories at Bristol and Richmond. His record in the last 22 short-track races includes four wins and 15 top-5 finishes, a stark contrast to Busch’s struggles. If Busch wants to start 2025 on a high note, he’ll need to overcome both his short-track shortcomings and Hamlin’s dominance.
A New Chapter for RCR: Leadership Overhaul to Support Busch
Recognizing the need for a significant shake-up, RCR has implemented sweeping changes to bolster its competitive edge. Team owner Richard Childress has brought in fresh faces to revitalize the team’s performance:
- Keith Rodden has been promoted to Vice President of Competition, replacing Andy Petree mid-season.
- John Klausmeier, formerly of Stewart-Haas Racing, joins as the team’s new Technical Director.
- Richard Boswell, known for his work with Chase Briscoe, takes over as crew chief for the No. 3 team.
These changes reflect Childress’s determination to elevate RCR’s competitiveness, especially against rising Chevy teams like Trackhouse Racing and Spire Motorsports, which have made significant strides in recent years.
“John Klausmeier and Richard Boswell have both been great winners in the garage, and I know their experience and skills will contribute to RCR’s overall success,” Childress said. “I feel confident that all of our crew chiefs will do a great job leading their respective teams, and we will give our partners, employees, and fans plenty to be excited about in 2025.”
Rowdy’s Redemption: A Season of Second Chances
Despite the odds, Busch remains a resilient competitor with the potential to defy expectations. Bowman Gray may not seem like the ideal stage for his comeback, but NASCAR’s beauty lies in its unpredictability. With a restructured RCR team behind him, Busch has the tools to turn the tide.
The 2025 season isn’t just about reclaiming wins for Busch—it’s about restoring his legacy as one of NASCAR’s most formidable drivers. Can Rowdy rise above the challenges and silence the critics? Fans and rivals alike will be watching closely as the Clash at Bowman Gray kicks off what promises to be a pivotal season for Kyle Busch and RCR.