Former NASCAR driver has broken his silence after pleading guilty to DWI

Former NASCAR driver Kurt Busch has broken his silence after pleading guilty to driving under the influence in North Carolina. The charges stem from an incident on Aug. 13, 2024, when Bush was pulled over for speeding 63 mph in a 45 mph zone around 11:40 p.m. A breathalyzer test revealed a BAC of 0.17, which is significantly higher than the legal limit.

AND report by Iredell Free News declared at the time of Bush’s arrest:

“Deputy Zalepka reported that Bush, who lives off Pine Meadow Lane in Mooresville, ‘had red, glassy eyes’ and ‘had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath,'” court records state. “The defendant admitted that he was under the influence of alcohol before he got behind the wheel.”

Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, Kurt Busch 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 to study pharmacy before deciding to pursue a career in professional racing. His early racing career saw notable success, including winning Rookie of the Year in the Southwest NASCAR Featherlite Series in 1998, followed by a series championship in 1999.

He won the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series championship in 2004 during his first season using the “Chase for Cup” points format. Over the years, Busch has accumulated 31 Cup Series wins, along with victories in the Busch/Nationwide and Truck Series. His victory in the 2017 Daytona 500 remains the highlight of his racing career.

For his recent DWI plea, Bush faces 60 days of probation, 12 months of unsupervised probation and the suspension of his driver’s license, although he can later apply for a restricted driving license. According to a report by TMZreckless driving and speeding charges were dropped as part of his plea deal. Bush was also ordered to perform 24 hours of community service and pay appropriate fees.

In a recent statement, Bush commented:

“I take full responsibility for my recent DWI arrest and deeply regret my actions. I voluntarily completed the pre-trial evaluation and followed all recommendations until my court date. I am committed to righting the wrong, ensuring it never happens again, and returning to racing with a renewed focus. Thanks to everyone who supported me.”

During the arrest, Bush wrote on social networks:

“I am very disappointed in myself and 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 this place safer in the future,” he added.