NASCAR has become a lot safer in the last two decades since that black day at the Daytona 500 in 2001. But that doesn’t mean drivers are completely immune from injuries. Kurt Busch is the biggest example. The 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion was left helpless as a result of an accident.

Busch’s injury was a big wake-up call about the safety of the Next Gen car. A seemingly regulation accident during qualifying at Pocono snowballed into something that changed his life and affected everyone on Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team.

Read More: “This Is Going to Be a Fun Ride” – Tyler Reddick Gets Major Boost of Support as the Michael Jordan Driver Begins New Chapter in NASCAR Career

23XI had to find a temporary replacement for the 2022 season. Tyler Reddick was supposed to join the team in 2024, but owing to circumstances, 23XI Racing bought out the remainder of Reddick’s contract from Richard Childress Racing. Unfortunately for Busch, he has had to drop doing what he loved the most—racing. The 2004 Cup winner, however, will continue to assist the team in mentoring and other capacities.

Kurt Busch welcomes his replacement

With his years of experience, Busch will be guiding Reddick’s arrival on the team. In a video released by the team on Instagram, Reddick is being welcomed to the team’s base by Busch.

Reddick is seen complimenting Busch in the video. He says, “I’m really thankful that he’s going to continue to be involved and be a huge asset to this team. Just the amount of experience that he has at the Cup level, being a Champion, being a multi, multi race winner. All the things he has done, and to go through in this sport, in the different phases of his career.”

Although for Busch, this is a sad and anti-climactic end to what was a long and successful driving career, his fans will surely enjoy seeing him in his new role at 23XI Racing.

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Fans love Busch’s hearty welcome to Reddick

In the video, “Welcome!” said an upbeat-looking Busch. He then asked the young driver, “How many times you gonna win? Four, five?” Reddick meekly replied, “Let’s start with one, and then go from there. I’d like to work with you.” 

A pumped Busch replied, “Yes sir! You’re welcome, man! I’m glad you’re here. This is what it’s all about. It’s the people, we’re all having fun. But when it’s game time, we dig.”

For a young driver still trying to make a name for himself, an experienced hand around the shoulder is always helpful. Especially, when making a big move like this.

Fans loved the warmth from Busch. One fan remarked, “Kurt deserves the respect everyone is showing him. Great competitor and his value is being seen time and again.” Another commented how Reddick is lucky to have Busch around: “Dynamic duo. He’s in good hands with Kurt. ❤️❤️❤️❤️🙌🙌🙌🙌”

Some fans were impressed by his dressing sense. One fan complimented, “Kurt sneakers are a W,” while another said, “Kurt Busch w the Travis Scott’s🔥”

Watch This Story: Two Months After Shocking Retirement, Kurt Busch Gets Huge Michael Jordan Surprise During Holiday Season

The move from RCR to 23XI is definitely a big one for Reddick, but it is crucial for him to make the most of it. He is lucky to have a mentor like none other.