In a moment that still resonates with NASCAR fans, Kyle Busch found himself at the center of controversy after smashing a $25,000 custom-made Les Paul guitar during the post-race celebration of the 2009 Federated Auto Parts 300 at Nashville Superspeedway. The incident sparked a mixed reaction among fans, particularly those loyal to Dale Earnhardt Jr., whose number, “88,” became a focal point of Busch’s jabs.
Following his victory in the now-discontinued NASCAR Xfinity Series race, Busch reflected on the backlash he received during a press conference in Michigan. He expressed surprise at the attention the incident garnered, stating, “I never thought it would get that much attention. It is what it is, so I thought it was a neat idea to share the guitar with the whole team and, in the spirit of rock and roll, smash it up, bang it up, whatever.”
Busch’s comments seemed to target Earnhardt Jr.’s supporters, whom he implied were overly critical of his celebration. “A lot of people enjoyed it… thought it was different… sports not-so vanilla. A lot of people hated it. I guess those are the ones with 88s tattooed on their arm. Or maybe still 8s. I don’t know which,” he quipped. He further clarified his stance, stating, “I ain’t got no issues with Junior. It’s his fans that are crazy. But that’s alright.”
Dale Earnhardt Jr. had a significant following during his racing career, consistently winning NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver Award from 2003 to 2017. The contrasting personalities of Busch and Earnhardt Jr. often fueled fan rivalries, which became evident in the wake of the guitar-smashing incident.
The drama didn’t end there for Busch. In 2011, he was involved in a physical altercation with Richard Childress at Kansas Speedway after an incident during a cooldown lap involving then-RCR driver Joey Coulter. Childress punched Busch and placed him in a headlock, leading to a $150,000 fine from NASCAR and limited access to the track for Childress. He accepted responsibility for his actions but did not apologize to Busch, stating, “First of all, I’m responsible for my actions, plain and simple. I let that passion and my emotions get the best of me.”
In a humorous nod to their tumultuous past, when Busch signed with Richard Childress Racing in 2022, Childress gifted him a watch and referred back to their previous altercation by asking, “Will you hold my watch?”
As Busch’s career continues, the legacy of the guitar smash and his rivalries remain a testament to the fiery spirit of NASCAR, embodying the passion and fervor that define the sport.
