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When it comes to racing in particular, Kyle Busch has never been one to accept rejection. He is tenacious in obtaining his goals, whether they involve pursuing victories or hiring talent for Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM). That perseverance can occasionally pay off in the most significant way. That was discovered directly by one driver. The driver in question was enjoying some well-earned relaxation after retiring from full-time racing. Busch, however, had different plans. He refused to pass up a fantastic opportunity. The phone calls from Busch began to come in. Again, again, again.

The driver first showed no interest. After all, he had accomplished everything there was. Busch, however, was not about to back down. Convinced that his pal still had what was required, he persisted. Then, everything changed while they were sitting around a campfire in the desert one night. Busch finally received the response he desired after a final prod. What transpired next was a surprise comeback, an exciting race, and an event that would go down in KBM history.

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When Kyle Busch got Greg Biffle back to the racetrack

Greg Biffle had a fairly disappointing 2016 Cup season. In contrast to his triumphs in the Busch and Truck series, where he won titles more than ten years prior, he managed to finish a dismal 23rd overall in the Cup Series. Following his modest beginnings at Rousch, Biffle left the organization in 2016. It was widely anticipated that Biffle would come to the 2017 season rejuvenated and with a new team. And, given his caliber, he had opportunities laid out for him.

“I got lots of phone calls for opportunities to go drive drive cars…I wanted to drive for a team I felt like I could win with and win a championship.” Biffle recalled. However, Biffle didn’t return for the 2017 season. So, naturally, even Dale Earnhardt Jr. asked him, “Why didn’t you?”  Biffle finally, after almost a decade, revealed the reason for his hiatus from the racetrack and the eventual return.

“Once I had about five or six weeks off or 10 weeks off, I fell in love with having some free time,” he answered. Kyle Busch, however, had different ideas for Biffle at the same moment. He recognized a chance to include his longtime friend in the Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) organization. Furthermore, he wasn’t going to accept no. But, when Busch first suggested a full-time Truck Series comeback, Biffle rejected his proposal.

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“Hey, if we could put something together for a full-time Truck gig, would you do it?” Busch asked. Biffle declined, stating, “I’m going to step away for a bit. I don’t think I’m ready for that yet.” That was in 2016, and for three years, Biffle stayed away. And Busch, adamant. Finally, during a casual night by the campfire in March 2019, Busch put the pressure on again!

“Are you going to run my truck at Texas or not?” Biffle recalled Busch asking him demandingly. After years of avoiding the track, he finally gave in. “All right, I’ll do it.” Biffle’s surprise comeback to NASCAR was launched in an instant. For Kyle Busch Motorsports, Biffle tested around a dozen laps at the Spring Texas Race. A few months later, he not only entered but also won the SpeedyCash.com 400. The comeback narrative was ideal. But it was also the one that almost didn’t happen.

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Kyle Busch’s eye for talent – The drivers who thrived at KBM

Biffle is not the only driver who has prospered at KBM under Kyle Busch’s tutelage. Busch has continuously discovered talent throughout the years that not only achieves success but also raises the bar for NASCAR and related motorsports racing. Many of his drivers have achieved NASCAR prominence, and his ability to see potential has led to a number of exceptional careers.

KBM is where drivers like Noah Gragson, Erik Jones, and Christopher Bell began their NASCAR careers. In the Xfinity and Cup Series, Bell, in particular, made waves and even won at the esteemed Bristol Motor Speedway. Jones made the switch to Cup fast, demonstrating Busch’s aptitude at identifying talent.

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Unquestionably, Kyle has shaped young drivers’ careers by giving them the resources they need to be successful. By permitting them to compete for KBM, Busch opens doors that would not otherwise be possible. He provides guidance on the track and in life, so his mentoring extends beyond the wheel.

Kyle Busch Motorsports has developed into a springboard for the upcoming generation of NASCAR drivers, thanks to his program. Busch’s history of identifying and developing talent at KBM, from a proven icon like Biffle to up-and-coming champions like Bell, is evidence of his ability as a driver and a team leader.

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