Video: Kyle Busch’s Championship Hopes in Question After Lap 271 Engine Failure

share it

Kyle Busch’s chances at a third title in the NASCAR Cup Series could be in question after the Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 had an engine failure on Lap 271. PC: Jonathan McCoy | TobyChristie.com

It’s been a nasty couple of months for Kyle Busch, in his final season for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series, with the No. 18 having his second engine failure in the last three races.

This time, it could potentially cost the 37-year-old a chance at capturing his third championship in the NASCAR Cup Series, depending on how the second half of Saturday’s Bass Pro Shops Night Race unfolds.

Out of the car. Out of the race.

Kyle Busch's championship hopes may come to an end tonight at Bristol. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/6ogHob9yls

— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) September 18, 2022

Busch’s issue – occurring just after halfway – continues a trend of various mechanical issues throughout the event, which has included tire problems, power steering issues, and now exploding engines.

The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion will finish somewhere between 32nd and 34th, losing a myriad of points to the cutline to advance to the next round, but will the 14 stage points he earned be enough?

Joseph Srigley

Joseph maintains the role of Managing Editor for TobyChristie.com, while also working as an Editor for Racing America. Additionally, Joseph graduated from the University of Windsor in 2022 with a Business Administration degree, a specialization in Supply Chain Management and Data Analytics, and a minor in Mathematics.