NASCAR champion Kyle Busch has died at the age of 41, according to a statement released Thursday by his family, his racing team, and NASCAR.

"On behalf of the Busch family, everyone at Richard Childress Racing and all of NASCAR, we are devastated to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch," the statement read.

Earlier on Thursday, Busch's family had announced he was hospitalized and undergoing treatment for a severe illness, and would be unable to compete that weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Details regarding the specific nature of his illness or the cause of death were not immediately provided by his family.

The statement hailed Busch as a "once-in-a-generation talent" who was "fierce, passionate, immensely skilled and cared deeply about the sport and fans." His sharp wit and competitive spirit fostered a strong connection with fans, creating the "Rowdy Nation," the statement added.

Busch raced full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Richard Childress Racing, driving the No. 8 Chevrolet, and part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for Spire Motorsports in the No. 7 Chevrolet. His illustrious career spanned two decades and included 234 victories across all three NASCAR national series. He secured two NASCAR Cup Series championships, in 2015 and 2019, and set numerous records.

His most recent victory was in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Dover Motor Speedway on May 15. When asked after that race about why these moments never lose their appeal, Busch responded, "Because you never know when the last one is."

Busch is survived by his wife, Samantha, and their two children, Brexton and Lennix. His older brother, Kurt Busch, is also a champion professional stock car racing driver.

NASCAR acknowledged the loss, stating, "NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon."