Published 01/17/2023, 4:30 AM EST
2022 proved to be a great season for NASCAR. The on-track brilliance of the drivers had a lion’s share to contribute to that. But there was a lot that happened off the tracks that kept fans intrigued and hooked. The most intense among those was the Kyle Busch and Joe Gibbs Racing saga.
Kyle Busch had been the mainstay of the Joe Gibbs Racing team for 15 years. The driver had brought them two Cup Series titles, among other numerous wins. His performances over the years with JGR have made him one of the best NASCAR drivers of his generation. And things were looking smooth until the 2022 season.
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In 2022, issues started to creep in as Busch’s long-time sponsors, Mars & Wrigley, decided to pull the plug at the end of the season. With M&M no longer sponsoring the Candyman, there were doubts over the feasibility of featuring one of the highest-paid drivers on the team.
Seemingly, the lack of sponsorship and the absence of companies willing to replace M&M became a thorn in the side of JGR. After protracted talks over the renewal of Busch’s contract, it was decided that JGR could no longer retain him.
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This decision didn’t go down too well—particularly with Busch’s loyal fanbase. He did eventually find another seat, but it didn’t change the fact that a driver of his standing wasn’t “respected.”
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As Busch prepares for his first season at Richard Childress Racing, there has been a long list of sponsors that have lined up to fund his racing journey. As the announcement of Netspend joining Busch’s team came in from RCR, fans started to note how disappointing JGR’s behavior had been toward the legend.
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Rowdy Nation will always feel Busch got the short end of the stick after his dedicated service to JGR. This season is a chance for him to prove JGR wrong. And his fans will be dearly wishing that he gets his hands on the third title.