Several NASCAR Cup Series drivers are rallying behind the late Kyle Busch to win the 2026 Most Popular Driver Award. Following Chase Elliott's decision to withdraw from consideration, drivers including Kyle Larson, Carson Hocevar and Chase Briscoe have publicly encouraged fans to support the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, who unexpectedly died on May 21 at 41 years old.
Elliott, who has won the award eight consecutive times since 2018, removed himself from the ballot to honor Busch's legacy. The Hendrick Motorsports driver followed the example set by his father, Bill Elliott, who withdrew from consideration in 2001 following Dale Earnhardt's death. Despite Busch's reputation as one of NASCAR's most polarizing competitors, Elliott believes
his passionate fan base makes him deserving of the honor.
Larson and Hocevar were among the drivers who expressed their support during the Talladega race weekend. Larson confirmed that Busch had his vote, while Hocevar urged his supporters to vote for the former Richard Childress Racing driver instead. Hocevar even expressed disappointment at the possibility of receiving votes himself, explaining that he would rather see Busch honored this season.
Briscoe also confirmed that he voted for Busch, noting that the award would mean a great deal to his family. Meanwhile, Chris Buescher praised Elliott's decision to withdraw from consideration, describing the growing movement as another opportunity for NASCAR to honor Busch. The widespread support reflects the respect Busch earned throughout a career that included 63 Cup Series victories and two championships.
Voting for the 2026 NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award opened on October 23 and will remain available until November 9 at noon ET. Fans can submit up to five votes per day through NASCAR's official website or mobile application. The winner will be announced during the NASCAR Awards ceremony on November 10 in Miami, potentially giving Busch one final honor following his legendary career.
This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: NASCAR drivers support Kyle Busch to win the Most Popular Driver Award
