Back when Kurt Busch was just starting out in the NASCAR scene, he was really naïve. Fortunately, he managed to clean up his act and is now, the 2004 Cup Series champion and has 32 wins under his belt. Recently, the 42-year-old looked back on his career since 2000. He confessed [https://twitter.com/NASCAR/status/1333214271812100097?s=20], “I took things for granted when I was younger. If I could teach my younger self to take a deep breath and don’t put so much emotion and high and low into every race. Just chill out a bit. I just thought it was all about me, me, me, over the years. I’ve understood it’s about the team.” Truthfully speaking, Busch Sr’s last two years at Chip Ganassi Racing really helped him. Kurt Busch admitted that the second half of his career was far more fulfilling than the first. HOW HAS KURT BUSCH PERFORMED SO FAR IN HIS CAREER? In the buildup to that maiden Cup Series title, Busch racked up nine visits to Victory Lane with Roush Racing. Since then, he has been up and down the order but has managed to take the odd victory since then. Slowly but surely, he built up his tally to his eventual 32 visits to Victory Lane. Kurt Busch [https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1277056193.jpg]LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 27: Kurt Busch, driver of the #1 Monster Energy Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on September 27, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) To make matters even better, Kurt Busch finally managed to get the monkey off his back and grab a home win [https://www.essentiallysports.com/nascar-news-watch-how-kurt-busch-held-his-nerve-in-exciting-overtime-finish-at-las-vegas/]. As Las Vegas natives, he and brother Kyle Busch were always keen to win on the home tarmac. Kyle already has a Las Vegas win on his resume, from the 2009 season. Currently, the older Busch is racing for Chip Ganassi Racing. In 2021, Kurt will partner Xfinity graduate Ross Chastain at CGR and the two will prepare for another tough campaign. Since Chastain is just a rookie, Kurt Busch will essentially act as a mentor for the young driver. 

In a recent video, Kurt Busch spoke about his career trajectory from a naive
young race to a 2004 Cup Series champion with 32 career wins.

Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. He not only writes engaging content but helps connect readers with some of the biggest racing names thanks to his ability to churn out exclusive interviews.

Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin. When he's not writing about Stock Car Racing, he can be found reading and writing fan fiction.

Dhruv George

Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch.

Dhruv George | Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports

EssentiallySports

https://www.staging.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/es_circle_black_logo.png

Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. He not only writes engaging content but helps connect readers with some of the biggest racing names thanks to his ability to churn out exclusive interviews. Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin. When he's not writing about Stock Car Racing, he can be found reading and writing fan fiction.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Dhruv-George-1-96x96.png

Dhruv George is a senior Formula One and NASCAR analyst for EssentiallySports,
having authored nearly 12000 articles spanning different sports like F1, NASCAR,
Tennis, NFL, and eSports. He graduated with a PG Diploma in Journalism from the
Xavier Institute of Communications. Dhruv has also conducted interviews with F1
driver Pierre Gasly and Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino. He has been an ardent
follower of motorsports sport since 2001, holding Carlos Sainz Jr. and McLaren
in high regard.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Dhruv_George.png

Kurt Busch on his way to victory at the Southern Point 400

NASCAR: South Point 400

Sep 27, 2020; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kurt Busch (1) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

NASCAR: South Point 400 - EssentiallySports

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MILLION DOLLAR BLING, Saudi Arabian Glory, World Title and More  Ft. Impa Kasanganay

[caption id="attachment_494051" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-494051 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201227193615/GettyImages-1151453322.jpg" alt="Kurt Busch during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Toyota / Save Mart 350 " width="1920" height="1280" /> SONOMA, CA - JUNE 21: Kurt Busch, No. 1 Monster Energy Chevrolet for Chip Ganassi Racing enters Turn 4 during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Toyota / Save Mart 350 on June 22, 2019, in Sonoma, CA. (Photo by Larry Placido/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)[/caption]
<h2>Chip Ganassi Racing - 2021 Latest News, Drivers, Stats, Schedule</h2>
Chip Ganassi Racing was founded in 1989 by Felix Sabates after he bought an R&amp;D group from Hendrick Motorsports. Previously known as SABCO Racing, the group was renamed Team SABCO in 1996.

In 2001, Ganassi purchased 80% of the stake for the then-two-car group, and it was named 'Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.' The group changed from Chevrolet to Dodge during the same year.

In 2009, Ganassi collaborated with Dale Earnhardt, Inc. proprietor Teresa Earnhardt. The agreement was struck to consolidate DEI's NASCAR activities into Ganassi's shop and run as 'Earnhardt Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates'. Earnhardt was dropped from the team in 2014.

In mid-2015, Rob Kauffman of Michael Waltrip Racing bought a stake in the group.
<h2>Achievements</h2>
Chip Ganassi Racing team has won a total of 48 races. While 26 victories have come in the NASCAR Cup Series, the remaining 22 came in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The pit crew won the 2017 Comcast Community Champion Award in acknowledgment of their magnanimous work.
<h2>Drivers</h2>
The Chip Ganassi Racing team has raced in NASCAR with many eminent drivers, including Kyle Petty, Juan Pablo Montoya, Jamie McMurray, and Kyle Larson.

They run the No. 1 and No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s for Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth. It is in an alliance with Hendrick Motorsports.
<h2>Owner</h2>
Chip Ganassi and Rob Kauffman are the owners of the CGR team. Max Jones, who is the Managing Director of the Chip Ganassi Racing Teams' NASCAR activity, manages all parts of the group's racing cars in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Sabates reported his retirement as a co-proprietor from the group after the 2020 season.
<h2>Net Worth</h2>
According to <a href="https://www.forbes.com/teams/chip-ganassi-racing/#6869a4256b1b" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Forbes</a>, the team is valued at $63 million. The team has earned $14 million from winnings and has a revenue of $45 million.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="301">Owners</td>
<td width="301">Chip Ganassi, Felix Sabates, Rob Kauffman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Base</td>
<td width="301">Concord, North Carolina</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Series</td>
<td width="301">NASCAR Cup Series</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Race Drivers</td>
<td width="301">1. Kurt Busch

42. Matt Kenseth</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Sponsors</td>
<td width="301">NASCAR Cup Series:

1. Monster Energy, GearWrench

42. Credit One, McDonald's, Clover, AdventHealth</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Manufacturer</td>
<td width="301">Chevrolet</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Opened</td>
<td width="301">1989</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Race Victories</td>
<td width="301">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Net Worth</td>
<td width="301">$63 Million</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Chip Ganassi Racing

SONOMA, CA &#8211; JUNE 21: Kurt Busch, No. 1 Monster Energy Chevrolet for Chip Ganassi Racing enters Turn 4 during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Toyota / Save Mart 350 on June 22, 2019, in Sonoma, CA. (Photo by Larry Placido/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Chip Ganassi Racing &#8211; 2021 Latest News, Drivers, Stats, Schedule Chip Ganassi Racing was founded in 1989 by Felix Sabates after he bought an R&amp;D group from Hendrick Motorsports. Previously known as SABCO Racing, the group was renamed Team SABCO in 1996. In 2001, Ganassi purchased 80% of the stake for the then-two-car group, and it was named &#8216;Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.&#8217; The group changed from Chevrolet to Dodge during the same year. In 2009, Ganassi collaborated with Dale Earnhardt, Inc. proprietor Teresa Earnhardt. The agreement was struck to consolidate DEI&#8217;s NASCAR activities into Ganassi&#8217;s shop and run as &#8216;Earnhardt Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates&#8217;. Earnhardt was dropped from the team in 2014. In mid-2015, Rob Kauffman of Michael Waltrip Racing bought a stake in the group. Achievements Chip Ganassi Racing team has won a total of 48 races. While 26 victories have come in the NASCAR Cup Series, the remaining 22 came in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The pit crew won the 2017 Comcast Community Champion Award in acknowledgment of their magnanimous work. Drivers The Chip Ganassi Racing team has raced in NASCAR with many eminent drivers, including Kyle Petty, Juan Pablo Montoya, Jamie McMurray, and Kyle Larson. They run the No. 1 and No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s for Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth. It is in an alliance with Hendrick Motorsports. Owner Chip Ganassi and Rob Kauffman are the owners of the CGR team. Max Jones, who is the Managing Director of the Chip Ganassi Racing Teams&#8217; NASCAR activity, manages all parts of the group&#8217;s racing cars in the NASCAR Cup Series. Sabates reported his retirement as a co-proprietor from the group after the 2020 season. Net Worth According to Forbes, the team is valued at $63 million. The team has earned $14 million from winnings and has a revenue of $45 million.  Owners Chip Ganassi, Felix Sabates, Rob Kauffman  Base Concord, North Carolina  Series NASCAR Cup Series  Race Drivers 1. Kurt Busch 42. Matt Kenseth  Sponsors NASCAR Cup Series: 1. Monster Energy, GearWrench 42. Credit One, McDonald&#8217;s, Clover, AdventHealth  Manufacturer Chevrolet  Opened 1989  Race Victories 26  Net Worth $63 Million

Chip Ganassi Racing Archives

LatestChip Ganassi Racing - EssentiallySports News | EssentiallySports

NASCAR

NASCAR Archives

LatestNASCAR - EssentiallySports News | EssentiallySports

<h1 style="text-align: center"><b>NASCAR Cup Series: Origin, Teams and More</b></h1>
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the NASCAR Cup Series?</strong></h2>
NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) is the authorizing body for stock-vehicle racing in North America. It was established in 1948 in Daytona Beach, Florida. Currently, the organization fields four types of tracks: Intermediate tracks, Superspeedways, Short Tracks and Road Courses.

[caption id="attachment_2675743" align="alignnone" width="5162"]<img class="wp-image-2675743 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-02-20T005209Z_1919194866_MT1USATODAY22564783_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-DAYTONA-500.jpg" alt="NASCAR" width="5162" height="3322" /> Feb 19, 2024; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series drivers Corey LaJoie (7), Kyle Busch (8) and A.J. Allmendinger (16) race three wide for the lead during the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Origin</strong></h2>
The first-ever NASCAR race was held at Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway on June 19, 1949 and Christian David "Jim" Roper was the victor after racer Glen Dunaway was disqualified for making illegal adjustments to his car.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On this day in 1949, NASCAR held its first-ever "Strictly Stock" race.</p>
Thirty-three drivers raced at Charlotte Speedway, six of which were future NASCAR Hall of Famers. Jim Roper was declared the winner following a disqualification to Glenn Dunaway. <a href="https://t.co/yBUDRcRxVo">pic.twitter.com/yBUDRcRxVo</a>

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASCAR/status/1670832065690972160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>

<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Why is it named Cup Series? </strong></h2>
The NASCAR Cup Series is the pinnacle of the racing arrangement in the NASCAR classification. The arrangement started in 1949 and was called the Strictly Stock Division. The series was subsequently known as the Grand National Division from 1950 to 1970.

Then, in 1971, it started renting its naming rights to the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and was alluded to as the NASCAR Winston Cup Series till 2003. From the next year onwards, the series came to be known as the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series till 2007 after a partnership with Nextel.

Sprint obtained Nextel in 2005 and 2008 saw the arrangement being renamed as the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Sprint remained the sponsor of the NASCAR Cup from 2008 to 2016. It was reported in December 2016 that Monster Energy would be the sponsor; therefore, the arrangement was renamed the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series from 2017 to 2019.

However, after decades of name changes, in 2017, the organization finally decided to shed off its old image and simply be named as the NASCAR Cup Series, with series sponsors being called 'Premier Partners'.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the format of the Cup Series?</strong></h2>
The NASCAR points system has been a complicated affair to say the least. Over the years, the organization has tried several iterations, namely the Latford system, the Chase and the current elimination playoffs format among others, to discern one that would be fair to each driver.

While the earlier system saw drivers being awarded points on the basis of prize money in a particular race, in 1972 a new format was introduced. This time the points were awarded on the basis of laps completed. However, even that came with its own flaws and just two years later, in 1974, the organization introduced point calculation based on a mathematical formula. However, given the complexity of the equation, Bill France Jr, the former CEO of NASCAR decided to step in and call upon his close friend Bob Latford, to come up with an efficient way, which later came to be known as Boot Hill Format or the Latford Model.

With equal points awarded in all races, as New York Times aptly put it: <em>"Mr. Latford set up his points scale to reward consistency rather than flashes of brilliance, and drivers seem to like it that way."</em>

This system was perhaps the longest-running one during that time, being replaced in 2003, by The Chase format. Currently, the NASCAR Cup Series operates on the Playoff Format. The schedule consists of 31 oval races, 4 road course races, one street track race, and 4 non-championship races to be held on ovals. This also includes 16 playoff races, with four elimination rounds, namely, Round of 16, Round of 12, Round of 4 and Championship 4.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Teams</strong></h2>
As of 2024, the NASCAR Cup Series has 16 full-time teams participating and three manufacturers, namely Toyota, Chevrolet and Ford. As for the team with the most number of victories and championship, Hendrick Motorsports has has an undebatable upper hand, with 305 Cup Series wins and 14 drivers championships.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Venue</strong></h2>
The first championship race was reportedly held at Martinsville Speedway, a half-mile oval, on October 16, 1949. Currently, the final race of a Cup season is held at the Phoenix Raceway, which is a one-mile, low-banked tri-oval race track located in Avondale, Arizona, near Phoenix.

[caption id="attachment_1351857" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1351857 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-11-07T003206Z_1075855806_MT1USATODAY19376372_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-CUP-CHAMPIONSHIP.jpg" alt="Joey Logano NASCAR" width="1920" height="1289" /> Nov 6, 2022; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Joey Logano (22) races in the final laps of the Cup championship at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Championship</strong></h2>
The NASCAR Cup Series hosts three different championship under one name: The Driver's Championship, the Owner's Championship and the Manufacturer's Championship. The driver's championship as the name suggests is the award given to the driver that has emerged as the winner at the end of a season. On the other hand, the Owner's Championship aims to reward the team at the top of the points standings. The driver with the most championship wins are Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt and Jimmie Johnson. Additionally, Rick Hendrick-owned Hendrick Motorsports has won a record-breaking 14 championships till date.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1195372 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/ezgif.com-gif-maker-3-78.jpg" alt="Richard Petty Dale Earnhardt NASCAR" width="1850" height="1253" />

On a similar note, the Manufacturer's Championship sees Original Equipment Manufacturers(OEMs) being awarded a championship based on how races their cars managed to dominate and the points accumulated. In this regard, US-based manufacturer Chevrolet has racked up the most Cup Series wins at 42, followed by Ford at 17, and Toyota at 3.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Track Types</strong></h2>
As mentioned earlier, the NASCAR Cup series organizes its races on four different types of tracks, namely, Intermediate tracks, Superspeedways, Short Tracks and Road Courses.

When it comes to Intermediate tracks, it simply means <em>"any track greater than one mile in length, with the exception of both Daytona and Talladega" </em>according to the official NASCAR website and currently the Cup Series drivers compete on the following Intermediate tracks/Speedways :
<ul>
 	<li>Atlanta Motor Speedway (1.540-mile, Quad-Oval)</li>
 	<li>Charlotte Motor Speedway (1.500-mile Quad-Oval, including a 2.280 miles Road Course)</li>
 	<li>Darlington Raceway (1.366-mile, Egg-Shaped Oval)</li>
 	<li>Dover Motor Speedway (1.000-mile, Concrete Oval)</li>
 	<li>Homestead-Miami Speedway (1.500-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>Kansas Speedway (1.500-mile, Tri-Oval)</li>
 	<li>Las Vegas Motor Speedway (1.500-mile, Tri-Oval)</li>
 	<li>Michigan International Speedway (2.000-mile, D-Shaped Oval)</li>
 	<li>Nashville Superspeedway (1.333-mile, Tri-Oval)</li>
 	<li>New Hampshire Motor Speedway (1.058-mile, Paperclip Oval)</li>
 	<li>Phoenix Raceway (1.000-mile, Dogleg Oval)</li>
 	<li>Texas Motor Speedway (1.500-mile, Quad-Oval)</li>
 	<li>World Wide Technology Raceway (1.250-mile, Egg-Shaped Oval)</li>
</ul>
On the other hand, Superspeedways ae oval road courses of two miles or longer. Currently, the NASCAR Cup Series has the following Superspeedways:
<ul>
 	<li>Auto Club Speedway (2.000-mile, D-Shaped Oval; Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Chicagoland Speedway (1.500-mile, D-Shaped Oval; Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Daytona International Speedway (2.500-mile, Tri-Oval)</li>
 	<li>Kentucky Speedway (1.500-mile, D-Shaped Oval)</li>
 	<li>Pocono Raceway (2.500-mile, Triangular Oval)</li>
 	<li>Talladega Superspeedway (2.660-mile, Tri-Oval)</li>
</ul>
The short tracks (less than 1 mile in length) that are part of NASCAR are:
<ul>
 	<li>Bristol Motor Speedway (0.533-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>Eldora Speedway (0.500-mile, Oval; Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Iowa Speedway (0.875-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>Knoxville Raceway (0.500-mile, Oval</li>
 	<li>Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum)</li>
 	<li>Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (0.686-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>Martinsville Speedway (0.526-mile, Paperclip Oval)</li>
 	<li>Milwaukee Mile Speedway (1.015-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>North Wilkesboro Speedway (0.625-mile, Oval)</li>
 	<li>Richmond Raceway (0.750-mile, D-shaped Oval)</li>
</ul>
As for Road Courses, NASCAR makes use of the following race tracks:
<ul>
 	<li>Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (2.459-mile, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Chicago Street Race (2.14 miles)</li>
 	<li>Circuit of the Americas (3.426-mile)</li>
 	<li>DAYTONA Road Course (4.170-mile, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (2.400-mile, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Portland International Raceway (1.967-mile, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Road America(4.048-mile, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Sebring Raceway (3.741 mi, Currently not in use)</li>
 	<li>Sonoma Raceway (1.99-mile)</li>
 	<li>Watkins Glen International (2.45-mile)</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Crown Jewel Races</strong></h2>
While NASCAR has several racetracks that it competes on, there are a couple venues that are held in high regards. Currently there are four such venues/races, namely the Daytona 500 held at the Daytona International Speedway, the Coca-Cola 500 held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway , the Brickyard 400/Verizon 200 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Southern 500 at the Darlington Raceway.

Till date, Hendrick Motorsports vice chairman and retired NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon has the most number of Crown Jewel race wins (21), followed by Legacy Motor Club team owner Jimmie Johnson (14) and retired NASCAR driver Bobby Allison (13).

[caption id="attachment_1691261" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1691261 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Jimmie-Johnson-Jeff-Gordon.jpg" alt="Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon" width="1920" height="1280" /> January 20, 2017 - Charlotte, North Carolina, USA - Jimmy Johnson and Jeff Gordon introduce Rick Hendrick at the NASCAR Motorsport USA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, January 20, 2017, in Charlotte, N.C. Rick Hendrick was inducted into the Hall of Fame with Richard Childress, Mark Martin, Raymond Parks, and Benny Parsons. 2017 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony - ZUMAw123 20170120_zap_w123_024[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series Cars</strong></h2>
NASCAR is an ever-evolving sport and till date, there have been several iterations of the cars used during races. If we go back to the very inception of the sport, the first kind of vehicle that was used used to be called Generation - 1 (1948-1966), followed by Generation - 2 (1967-1980) and Generation - 3 (1981-1991). Later the Generation - 4 (1992 to 2007) was introduced , and then Generation - 5 (2007 -2012) and Generation - 6 (2013-2021) came into play. And currently, NASCAR features the Generation - 7 car that is also known as the Next-Gen.

Anothe notable model was the Generation - 5. Dubbed as the<em> "Car of Tomorrow"</em>, this model featured flaunted prominent front splitters under the bumpers and larger rear wings. Apart from that, according to NASCAR, the car also had <em>"significant safety advancements and a return to symmetrical bodies". </em>

[caption id="attachment_2651610" align="alignnone" width="3461"]<img class="wp-image-2651610 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-02-16T030626Z_974940649_MT1USATODAY22533198_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-BLUEGREEN-VACATIONS-DUEL-1-AT-DAYTONA.jpg" alt="" width="3461" height="2307" /> Feb 15, 2024; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Martin Truex Jr. (19) during the Bluegreen Vacations Duel 1 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>NASCAR Cup Series debut at the Street Course</strong></h2>
The NASCAR Cup Series has come a long way since its initial days. The organization has always been open to developments and one of the most exciting ones came in 2023,when the tourney made its Street Course debut at Chicago.

In a bid to turn make the schedule even more exciting, NASCAR officials were reportedly in talks with Chicago authorities for a number of years, with one attempt of a Chicago street race even dating back to the 1980s. However, owing to political pressure, that plan failed to materialize. Now, fast forward to four decades later and authorities were finally geared up to host an exciting, first-of-its-kind race in downtown Chicago.

[caption id="attachment_1911252" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-1911252 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-07-03T052154Z_1117738559_MT1USATODAY20983749_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-GRANT-PARK-220.jpg" alt="NASCAR" width="1920" height="1280" /> Jul 2, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; A general view as cars race along Grant Park during the Grant Park 220 of the Chicago Street Race viewed from the NEMA Chicago buliding. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Designed by race simulation video game developer iRacing, the race aimed to showcase the city's major landmarks such as the Buckingham Fountain, the Grant Park and the Soldier Field Stadium, among others.

The first iteration of the race came in July of 2023, with New Zealand born driver Shane van Gisbergen clinching victory in his first-ever NASCAR race. If that's not iconic, what is?

<img class="alignnone wp-image-2804674 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/F0HhwcqXoAI3_zb.jpeg" alt="" width="2048" height="1365" />
<table style="width: 75.2357%;height: 264px">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Full Name</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">NASCAR Cup Series</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Place of Origin</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Year of Origin</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">1949</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">First Race</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">NASCAR "Strictly Stock" Race, Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Last Race</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">NASCAR Cup Series Spring Race at Martinsville Speedway, 2024</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Crown Jewel Race</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Daytona 500, Coca Cola 600, Brickyard 400/ Verizon 200, Southern 500</span></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Drivers with the most Championships</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Richard Petty (7), Dale Earnhardt (7) and Jimmie Johnson(7)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Team with the most Championships</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Hendrick Motorsports (14)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">First Champion</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Red Byron</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Defending Champion</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Ryan Blaney (2023)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 42.239%;height: 24px"><span style="font-weight: 400">Defending Team</span></td>
<td style="width: 237.884%;height: 24px">Team Penske</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

NASCAR Cup Series

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In a recent video, Kurt Busch spoke about his career trajectory from a naive young race to a 2004 Cup Series champion with 32 career wins.

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"I Took Things For Granted" - Kurt Busch on How he has Changed Over the Years

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Cup series

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[caption id="attachment_455725" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-455725" src="https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1002907568.jpg" alt="Kurt Busch in action in NASCAR Cup Series" width="1920" height="1280" /> LOUDON, NH - JULY 20: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Monster Energy/Haas Automation Ford, poses with the Cape Cod Cafe Pizza Pole Award after posting the fastest lap during qualifying for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Foxwoods Resort Casino 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 20, 2018 in Loudon, New Hampshire. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images)[/caption]
<h2><strong>Kurt Busch 2021: Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsement</strong></h2>
Kurt Busch is an American racing driver.?Busch's first racing experience was in a Dwarf vehicle at age 14, at Pahrump Valley Speedway. Busch additionally fiddled with IMCA Modified hustling.

The Star Nursery group searched for another driver to swap Trickle for the No. 70 group, which provided Busch the big break. He picked up public presentation while contending with Ron Hornaday, Jr., Matt Crafton, Greg Biffle, Kevin Harvick, and others for the 1997 Winter Heat Series at Tucson Raceway Park.

Busch's group proceeded to win the 1998 Auto Zone Elite Division Southwest Series Rookie of the Year. He followed up by winning the title in 1999.

This prompted a tryout in a Roush Racing "Gong Show," which he won and procured a Craftsman Truck Series ride. He raced the No. 99 Ford F-150. Kurt dominated four races and was the runner-up behind partner Greg Biffle in the title standings, just as winning Rookie of the Year respects.
<h2><strong>Kurt Busch</strong>: Stats and Championships</h2>
He contends full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE for Chip Ganassi Racing. He is the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series champion.

Busch has driven for many teams throughout his career, including Stewart-Haas Racing, Furniture Row Racing, Phoenix Racing, Penske Racing, and Roush Racing.

He has won 32 Cup races. Busch also has won the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series title with Roush Racing.

Kurt is one of 34 drivers to win races in every one of the three of NASCAR's divisions: the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Camping World Truck Series.

[caption id="attachment_415823" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-415823" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201019203224/2020-09-28T033915Z_1681331198_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-SOUTH-POINT-400.jpg" alt="Kurt Busch in action in NASCAR Cup Series" width="1920" height="1300" /> Sep 27, 2020; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kurt Busch (1) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2>Kurt Busch: Net Worth 2021</h2>
According to <a href="https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-athletes/race-car-drivers/kurt-busch-net-worth/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">celebrity net worth</a>, he has a net worth of $70 million dollars.

He is the second-longest-tenured driver in the Cup Series alongside Ryan Newman; they both made their debut in 2000.

He is the brother of two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch. They are second-gen drivers, as their dad, Tom, won a few NASCAR races.
<h2>Kurt Busch: Foundations and Charities</h2>
Kurt Busch has a partnership with Vet Tix Foundation and gave 100 passes to each of the 36 races to military individuals in 2019.

As per <a href="https://tobychristie.com/2019/02/12/kurt-busch-to-celebrate-service-members-and-veterans-with-ticket-giveaways/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Toby Christie</a>, Busch, at the 2017 DAYTONA 500 and the 2004 Cup Series Champion stated, <em>?I am appreciative of the sacrifice and commitment of our military service members and families.?</em>

He said, <em>?Family is what NASCAR is all about and I hope this experience at the track will be an enjoyable and fun-filled event!?</em>
<h2><b>Kurt Busch: Sponsors</b></h2>
Kurt Busch's primary sponsor is Monster Energy. His associate sponsors include Chevrolet, Clover, Credit One Bank, Goodyear, McDonald's, 3M, Sunoco.

[caption id="attachment_393871" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-393871" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20200928235205/2020-09-28T032422Z_479248743_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-SOUTH-POINT-400.jpg" alt="Kurt Busch on his way to victory at the Southern Point 400" width="1920" height="1169" /> Sep 27, 2020; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kurt Busch (1) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2>Best Moments of Kurt Busch</h2>

<h2>Kurt Busch: Lifestyle</h2>
Kurt Busch has an extraordinary collection of cars in NASCAR. Some of the cars from his lot are:

2001 Ford Mustang
2005 Ford GT
Dodge Viper
1969 Chevrolet Camaro
1971 Chevrolet Corvette
1961 Corvette
<h2>Kurt Busch: Family</h2>
Busch was born to Thomas and Gaye Busch in Las Vegas, Nevada. At six years old, Busch was going with his dad to the track and contending in karting.

After moving on from Durango High School, Busch went to the University of Arizona, to acquire a degree in Pharmacy. He is married to polo player Ashley Van Meter.

[caption id="attachment_455730" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-455730" src="https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1174691390.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1280" /> LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 14: Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&amp;M's Hazelnut Toyota, talks with Kurt Busch, driver of the #1 GEARWRENCH Chevrolet, during qualifying for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on September 14, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)[/caption]
<h2>How to contact Kurt Busch</h2>
Kurt Busch is very active and highly popular on social media. As a result, it's the most accessible and easiest method to keep in touch with the Cup Series Champion.

He is on all the popular social media platforms such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kurtbusch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/kurtbusch" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialKurtBusch" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook</a>. While these serve as an excellent platform for fan requests and interactions, Busch also has his own official <a href="https://shopkurtbusch.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">website</a> and management team to keep track of proposals and requests.

Interested parties can reach out to Busch through his <a href="https://shopkurtbusch.com/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">contact page</a>.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="301">Age</td>
<td width="301">42 Years</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Marital Status</td>
<td width="301">Married</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Residence</td>
<td width="301">Charlotte, North Carolina</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Nationality</td>
<td width="301">American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Team</td>
<td width="301">Chip Ganassi Racing</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Endorsements</td>
<td width="301">Monster Energy, Chevrolet, Clover, Credit One Bank, Goodyear, McDonald's, 3M, Sunoco</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Championships</td>
<td width="301">1 - 2004</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Net Worth</td>
<td width="301">$70 Million</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Birthday</td>
<td width="301">August 4, 1978</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Height</td>
<td width="301">5 ft 11 in (180 cm)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Kurt Busch

LOUDON, NH &#8211; JULY 20: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Monster Energy/Haas Automation Ford, poses with the Cape Cod Cafe Pizza Pole Award after posting the fastest lap during qualifying for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Foxwoods Resort Casino 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 20, 2018 in Loudon, New Hampshire. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) Kurt Busch 2021: Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsement Kurt Busch is an American racing driver.?Busch&#8217;s first racing experience was in a Dwarf vehicle at age 14, at Pahrump Valley Speedway. Busch additionally fiddled with IMCA Modified hustling. The Star Nursery group searched for another driver to swap Trickle for the No. 70 group, which provided Busch the big break. He picked up public presentation while contending with Ron Hornaday, Jr., Matt Crafton, Greg Biffle, Kevin Harvick, and others for the 1997 Winter Heat Series at Tucson Raceway Park. Busch&#8217;s group proceeded to win the 1998 Auto Zone Elite Division Southwest Series Rookie of the Year. He followed up by winning the title in 1999. This prompted a tryout in a Roush Racing &#8220;Gong Show,&#8221; which he won and procured a Craftsman Truck Series ride. He raced the No. 99 Ford F-150. Kurt dominated four races and was the runner-up behind partner Greg Biffle in the title standings, just as winning Rookie of the Year respects. Kurt Busch: Stats and Championships He contends full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE for Chip Ganassi Racing. He is the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series champion. Busch has driven for many teams throughout his career, including Stewart-Haas Racing, Furniture Row Racing, Phoenix Racing, Penske Racing, and Roush Racing. He has won 32 Cup races. Busch also has won the 2004 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series title with Roush Racing. Kurt is one of 34 drivers to win races in every one of the three of NASCAR&#8217;s divisions: the Cup Series, the Xfinity Series, and the Camping World Truck Series. Sep 27, 2020; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kurt Busch (1) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Kurt Busch: Net Worth 2021 According to celebrity net worth, he has a net worth of $70 million dollars. He is the second-longest-tenured driver in the Cup Series alongside Ryan Newman; they both made their debut in 2000. He is the brother of two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch. They are second-gen drivers, as their dad, Tom, won a few NASCAR races. Kurt Busch: Foundations and Charities Kurt Busch has a partnership with Vet Tix Foundation and gave 100 passes to each of the 36 races to military individuals in 2019. As per Toby Christie, Busch, at the 2017 DAYTONA 500 and the 2004 Cup Series Champion stated, ?I am appreciative of the sacrifice and commitment of our military service members and families.? He said, ?Family is what NASCAR is all about and I hope this experience at the track will be an enjoyable and fun-filled event!? Kurt Busch: Sponsors Kurt Busch&#8217;s primary sponsor is Monster Energy. His associate sponsors include Chevrolet, Clover, Credit One Bank, Goodyear, McDonald&#8217;s, 3M, Sunoco. Sep 27, 2020; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kurt Busch (1) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Best Moments of Kurt Busch Kurt Busch: Lifestyle Kurt Busch has an extraordinary collection of cars in NASCAR. Some of the cars from his lot are: 2001 Ford Mustang 2005 Ford GT Dodge Viper 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 1961 Corvette Kurt Busch: Family Busch was born to Thomas and Gaye Busch in Las Vegas, Nevada. At six years old, Busch was going with his dad to the track and contending in karting. After moving on from Durango High School, Busch went to the University of Arizona, to acquire a degree in Pharmacy. He is married to polo player Ashley Van Meter. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA &#8211; SEPTEMBER 14: Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&amp;M&#8217;s Hazelnut Toyota, talks with Kurt Busch, driver of the #1 GEARWRENCH Chevrolet, during qualifying for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on September 14, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) How to contact Kurt Busch Kurt Busch is very active and highly popular on social media. As a result, it&#8217;s the most accessible and easiest method to keep in touch with the Cup Series Champion. He is on all the popular social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. While these serve as an excellent platform for fan requests and interactions, Busch also has his own official website and management team to keep track of proposals and requests. Interested parties can reach out to Busch through his contact page.  Age 42 Years  Marital Status Married  Residence Charlotte, North Carolina  Nationality American  Team Chip Ganassi Racing  Endorsements Monster Energy, Chevrolet, Clover, Credit One Bank, Goodyear, McDonald&#8217;s, 3M, Sunoco  Championships 1 &#8211; 2004  Net Worth $70 Million  Birthday August 4, 1978  Height 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)

“I Took Things for Granted” – Kurt Busch on How He Has Changed over the Years

How has Kurt Busch performed so far in his career?