2023 has been a very happening year for the Busch family. From the RCR transfer that came at the onset of the season to selling his own racing team weeks ago, 2-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch has been busy with many pursuits on and off the track. But then again, it is not always every shot that hits the bullseye. After last weekend’s race at the Charlotte Roval, Busch will have to leave one box unmarked in his list of to-do things in 2023: Win the championship.

Despite coming in 3rd at the end of the 109 laps, the No. 8 driver was knocked out of the contest. But as always, he had his wife Samantha backing him at the end of the run with consolation words.

Samantha Busch provides support to 2-time champion Kyle Busch after Roval disappointment

When Kyle Busch signed for the old Richard Childress this year, expectations were that the move would rejuvenate his chances at the championship. Having already won the trophy back in 2015 and 2019, the driver looked forward to his luck turning under a different banner. For many weeks, that did appear likely. However, despite some dominant finishes over the course of the year, including three victory lane visits, he ended up falling short on points to advance to the round of 8. Coming out of his No. 8 Camaro at the end of the race, the driver must have cursed his ill luck.

Showing support for her partner of 13 years, Samantha posted pictures of her family on Instagram along with an emotional message that is sure to tug at Kyle’s heartstrings. She wrote, “Proud of you babe. I hate to see the 🎱 team out but 3 wins already this year is something to be very proud of! Few more races to grab another 🏁 for #RowdyNation“.

Kyle Busch finished the round 12 standings at the bottom of the list, 30 points shy of the cut-off line. Despite getting knocked off, Samantha’s positivity surged through the No. 8 camp as the driver and his crew picked themselves up after the tough fight.

Watch Story: Kyle Busch Motorsports: A Farewell Message From Samantha Busch

Richard Childress’s No. 8 team stand tall despite falling short

Samantha’s show of support for Kyle comes at a time when she is not at her best self. Facing an unexplainable and severe hair loss problem, the mother of two has been on a tough journey on her own. Her message to her husband at this time showcases the strong camaraderie between them. The No. 8 team reflected similar support for each other after the race. As Kyle took the cool-down lap, crew chief Randall Burnett radioed, “Hell of a job all day, man. Way to fight. Sorry, we came up a little short. Hell of a job, though.” Furthering the optimism, spotter Derek Kneeland pitched, “Yeah, 10-4 man, it was a hell of an effort. This team don’t quit. Plenty more wins coming. Just wasn’t our year.”

Following his team’s support, Kyle was quick to express his gratitude for them. Taking strength from the words of those surrounding him, the driver hoped that they would finish the season on a high. He said, “That’s what we want to do, go out on a high and win a few more races. That would definitely be good. You know, I look forward to Vegas. (…) and of course Phoenix, as well. I would love to be the spoiler on that Sunday. That would be fun.” 

If the years since Kyle’s debut have proved one thing to the racing world, it is that he is a fighter. Let us know what you think of his chances to take more victory lane visits before the season ends!

Read More: “Too Many Wins” Threw a Wrench in Championship Hopes, Claims Expelled Kyle Busch