Dale Earnhardt Jr. is set to serve as crew chief for Connor Zilisch this weekend following a suspension of Zilisch’s regular crew chief due to a penalty from the Nashville race. NASCAR veteran Kyle Busch expressed skepticism about Earnhardt Jr.’s involvement, suggesting it may be more of a publicity stunt than a hands-on role. Busch emphasized that with modern technology and strong support from the team‘s shop, the team can still operate effectively without the usual crew chief on the pit box.
With Earnhardt Jr. stepping in, this marks a notable change for the team formerly led by Mardy Lindley. However, Busch remained unconvinced about the actual impact of Earnhardt Jr.’s presence during the race weekend.
Kyle Busch Calls the Move a Publicity Stunt
When Dalton Hopkins of Frontstretch asked Busch about Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s crew chief role, Busch responded frankly. He described Earnhardt Jr.’s position as
“just a warm body sitting on top of the box,”
highlighting how much of the crew chief’s responsibilities could be managed remotely by the team’s shop staff. Busch further suggested that the same setup could be applied to his own truck teams, where the shop handles most functions while a figure is physically present in the pit box.
“It’s all publicity, but spin it how you want it,”
—Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
“Still, great, you know, cool. Eyeballs, and putting some attention on their team, and stuff like that. I mean, JRM is one of the top two, three teams in the Xfinity Series. So, let the best man win.”
—Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
Kyle Busch Not Interested in Crew Chief Role Himself
Busch was also asked if he considered taking on crew chief duties in the future, but he quickly dismissed the idea. Managing his 10-year-old son Brexton’s driving career already provides enough challenge for him.
Crew chiefing? No, no,
“I already crew chief enough with a 10-year-old driver, and it’s enough of a headache.”
—Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
Race Weekend Focus and Busch’s Performance Goals
Despite his comments on Earnhardt Jr., Busch’s primary focus remains on delivering a strong performance at Pocono Raceway this Sunday. He is targeting a top-10 finish and hopes for a top-5 to boost his momentum. A victory would dramatically improve his outlook for the 2024 season and elevate his status during his time with Richard Childress Racing (RCR).
Busch is confirmed to continue racing with RCR through 2026, but there are questions about how long he can remain competitive without a car that matches his driving style. Success at Pocono may hinge on whether RCR can provide Busch with equipment capable of contending for wins consistently.
With his career moving closer to its later stages, Busch’s urgency to return to winning ways is evident. Pocono could be a turning point for the veteran driver.