CONCORD, N.C. (AP) – Daniel Suarez achieved a significant milestone in his racing career by winning the rain-shortened Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday night, marking his first victory since 2024 and his third in the Cup Series.
The race took place amid a poignant atmosphere as the NASCAR community honored the late Kyle Busch, who had been a source of encouragement for Suarez during his early struggles in the sport.
Suarez, who became the first Mexican-born driver to win the Coca-Cola 600, benefited from a strategic pit call and favorable weather conditions that allowed him to secure the win as rain halted the race with 27 laps remaining. This victory was especially meaningful for Suarez, who previously raced for Busch’s team, reflecting his deep connection to the late driver.
Emotional Victory
The victory was laden with emotion for Suarez, who fought back tears as he expressed his dedication to Busch’s family. “Kyle, he was special,” Suarez said. “I was doing this for Kyle, for (his wife) Samantha, for (his children) Brexton and Lennix, and for all of his family.” His win came after a gamble during a late pit stop, where he opted for two tires, enabling him to fend off challengers Christopher Bell and Denny Hamlin during the final restarts.
Despite their efforts, Bell and Hamlin could not surpass Suarez, who maintained his lead until the race was called due to inclement weather shortly before midnight Eastern time. Bell finished in second place, while Hamlin secured third. Bell remarked, “It’s a bummer. It wasn’t meant to be today. That’s 2026 for us.” Hamlin added that he felt “just a little unlucky” during the race.
Tributes to Kyle Busch
The race took place just days after Busch’s untimely death, which shocked the motorsports community. Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, passed away due to complications from pneumonia and sepsis. His family attended the race, receiving support from NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell, who assured them they remain part of the NASCAR family.
In memory of Busch, NASCAR and Charlotte Motor Speedway paid tribute by marking his No. 8 and signature on the track’s frontstretch grass. Additionally, a billboard near the entrance of the track honored him, and each car in the race displayed a small, black No. 8 decal. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also honored Busch by carrying a flag prior to the race.
Race Highlights and Incidents
Kyle Larson won the first stage of the race, followed by Hamlin in the second stage and Bell in the third. However, several drivers faced difficulties. Defending champion Ross Chastain crashed after being clipped by Ricky Stenhouse Jr., while Connor Zilisch and Austin Cindric were involved in a separate incident that ended their races prematurely. Chase Elliott, another notable driver, crashed into the walls on Lap 90, resulting in a 37th-place finish.
Replacing Busch in the Race
Austin Hill filled in for Busch during the race, driving the No. 33 car and finishing in 26th place. Richard Childress Racing temporarily retired the No. 8 car until Busch’s son, Brexton, is ready to take the wheel. Austin Dillon also encountered issues, sustaining damage to his vehicle and finishing 32nd.