Former NASCAR driver breaks silence after pleading guilty to drunk driving

Former NASCAR driver Kurt Busch has broken his silence after pleading guilty to drunk driving in North Carolina. The charges stem from an Aug. 13, 2024, incident in which Busch was pulled over for speeding 63 mph in a 45 mph zone around 11:40 p.m. A breathalyzer test showed a BAC level of 0.17, well above the legal limit.

An Iredell Free News report at the time of Bush’s arrest stated:

“Deputy Zalepka reported that Bush, who lives near Pine Meadow Lane in Mooresville, “had red glassy eyes” and “a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath,” according to court records. “The defendant admitted that he was drunk before he got behind the wheel.”

Kurt Busch was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was immersed in racing culture from an early age under the influence of his father, Tom Busch, a local racing champion. Busch attended the University of Arizona School of Pharmacy before deciding to pursue a career in professional racing. His early racing career saw notable success, including a Rookie of the Year win in the NASCAR Featherlite Southwest Series in 1998, followed by a series championship in 1999.

He won the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series championship in his first season using the Chase for the Cup points format. Over the years, Busch has racked up 31 Cup Series wins, as well as wins in the Busch/Nationwide Series and Truck Series. His 2017 Daytona 500 victory remains a highlight of his racing career.

For a recent drunk driving plea, Bush faced 60 days of probation, 12 months of unsupervised probation and suspension of his driver’s license, although he could later apply for a restricted driver’s license. Charges of reckless driving and speeding were dropped as part of a plea deal, according to TMZ. Bush was also ordered to perform 24 hours of community service and pay related fees.

In a recent statement, Bush commented:

“I take full responsibility for my recent drunk driving arrest and deeply regret my actions. I voluntarily completed the pre-trial assessment and followed all recommendations prior to trial. I am committed to putting things right, ensuring this never happens again, and returning to racing with a new focus. Thanks to everyone who supported me.”

At the time of his arrest, Bush wrote on social media:

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

“I will work with the authorities to correct the situation and work with the county to make it a safer place in the future,” he added.