Ty Gibbs to pilot M&M’s No. 54 in tribute to Kyle Busch at Bristol

Ty Gibbs will drive the iconic M&M’s No. 54 car at the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway to honour former driver Kyle Busch, who passed away in May at the age of 41. The decision was announced by Busch’s widow, Samantha, who stated the tribute would take place on one of Kyle’s favourite tracks.

Busch died in May due to severe pneumonia that progressed into sepsis. His widow announced on social media that Gibbs would drive in the classic M&M’s paint scheme for the event next month. Samantha Busch described the return of the livery to Bristol as a chance to honour her husband at a place he loved, surrounded by the NASCAR family and fans.

Kyle Busch drove the No. 18 M&M’s car for 15 seasons with Joe Gibbs Racing from 2008 to 2022. During his tenure, he achieved nine Cup Series wins and 23 total NASCAR victories at the Bristol Motor Speedway. His final win for Joe Gibbs Racing in the M&M’s car occurred on the Bristol dirt track in April 2022.

Busch moved to Richard Childress Racing in 2023 and was driving for the team before falling ill in the spring. He was unable to compete in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway due to his illness. A joint statement regarding his death was issued by NASCAR, the Busch family, and relevant parties on Thursday, 21 May 2026.

Gibbs expressed his honour and excitement to drive the car via Instagram stories. He wrote, "Excited for Bristol. Gonna be a cool 1," and added in a second post, "So honored to drive this." The tribute marks the last time the iconic M&M’s colours will appear at Bristol, according to Samantha Busch.