In 2003, over twenty years ago, Kurt Busch narrowly missed winning the Carolina Dodge Dealer’s 400, finishing just 0.002 seconds behind the leader. This remains the closest finish in the history of the NASCAR Cup Series to date.
The race, consisting of 293 laps, took place before 55,000 fans in the stands at Darlington. Elliott Sadler secured the pole position and led for twelve laps. Roush Racing’s Kurt Busch began in sixth place, while the eventual race winner, Ricky Craven, started from 31st position.
Although Craven didn’t lead until the final lap, his journey to victory wasn’t easy: a fierce head-to-head battle unfolded in the closing moments of the race.
As they approached the finish line, Craven and Busch raced side by side, with Craven in his #32 Pontiac challenging Busch’s #97 Ford. Neither driver had claimed victory in 2003 until that moment in Darlington.
With a slight surge, Craven managed to edge past Busch by a mere 0.002 seconds, marking their first win of the season after a dramatic clash on the front straight.
Below is a video highlighting this historic Darlington duel featuring Kurt Busch and Ricky Craven (courtesy of NASCAR on NBC on X).
Fifteen years later, Busch shared his thoughts on that challenging final lap battle, stating via NASCAR:
“When I was heading down the front straightaway, I glanced in the mirror and saw him drift to my left. I thought, there’s no way he (Ricky) would try to make a pass going into Turn 1.
“I figured he’d lift, then attempt to sneak through on the short run between Turns 2, but we ended up bouncing off the fence, and I thought, ‘Oh, it’s on.’
While the Darlington victory marked Craven’s second and final Cup Series win, Busch captured the spotlight the following week at the Bristol race, finishing the season with a total of four victories.
Kyle Larson’s recent win in Kansas eclipsed Kurt Busch’s Darlington record
Kurt Busch’s 0.002-second margin of defeat was the benchmark for years until the 2024 AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway. As the race progressed, RFK Racing’s Chris Buescher led as they took the white flag, closely followed by Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson.
As they approached the final corner, an exhilarating battle for the lead unfolded. Exiting Turn 4, Larson and Buescher made contact twice within seconds, forcing Buescher to the inside line while Larson occupied the middle position.
Although it seemed that Buescher was on the verge of his first win of the season, Larson triumphed by a mere 0.001 seconds, setting a new record for the closest finish in NASCAR Cup Series history.
Since that race in Kansas, Buescher has not secured a victory and is now the last driver above the playoff cutline. Consequently, if a winless driver secures a victory in the upcoming Darlington race, Buescher’s chances of competing for the championship will be over.
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Edited by Bhargav
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NASCAR’s Closest Finishes: From Kurt Busch’s Historic 0.002 Seconds to Kyle Larson’s Record-Breaking Victory
The Thrill of the Finish Line
NASCAR races are known for their intense competition and nail-biting finishes. The sport’s history is rich with moments that keep fans on the edge of their seats, especially when races are decided by mere fractions of a second. In this article, we’ll explore some of the closest finishes in NASCAR history, highlighting Kurt Busch’s legendary 0.002 seconds victory and Kyle Larson’s record-breaking win.
Kurt Busch’s Historic 0.002 Seconds Win
On February 22, 2015, during the NASCAR Sprint Unlimited at Daytona International Speedway, Kurt Busch achieved one of the most remarkable victories in NASCAR history. His win by just 0.002 seconds is the closest margin recorded in the sport.
The Race Overview
- Event: NASCAR Sprint Unlimited 2015
- Location: Daytona International Speedway
- Winning Margin: 0.002 seconds
- Runner-up: Denny Hamlin
A Closer Look at the Finish
The final laps saw Kurt Busch and Denny Hamlin battling fiercely for the lead. As they crossed the finish line, it became clear that the outcome was going to be one for the history books. The photo finish confirmed Busch’s victory, and the crowd erupted, solidifying this moment as an iconic highlight in NASCAR’s storied legacy.
The Significance of Close Finishes
Close finishes in NASCAR not only excite fans but also elevate drivers’ statuses and create memorable moments in sports history. Here’s why these moments matter:
- Fan Engagement: Spectators thrive on the adrenaline rush of close finishes, which keeps them engaged and coming back for more.
- Legacy Building: Drivers known for their ability to close races gain a solid reputation and fan base.
- Historical Records: Close finishes often lead to new records, fostering a sense of competition and ambition within the sport.
Kyle Larson’s Record-Breaking Victory
Fast forward to 2021, where Kyle Larson captured the attention of NASCAR fans with a breathtaking performance at the Coca-Cola 600. Not only did Larson claim victory, but he did so in record-breaking fashion.
2021 Coca-Cola 600 Overview
- Date: May 30, 2021
- Location: Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Winning Margin: 10.5 seconds
- Significance: Largest victory margin since 2004
Highlights of the Race
Kyle Larson dominated the Coca-Cola 600, showcasing his skill and strategy throughout the race. With impeccable pit stops and tire management, Larson built a significant lead. His final margin of victory was a staggering 10.5 seconds, marking it as one of the most commanding wins in recent NASCAR history.
Table of Notable Close Finishes in NASCAR
| Race | Date | Winning Margin | Winner | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprint Unlimited | February 22, 2015 | 0.002 seconds | Kurt Busch | Denny Hamlin |
| Coca-Cola 600 | May 30, 2021 | 10.5 seconds | Kyle Larson | Chase Elliott |
| Daytona 500 | February 17, 2016 | 0.01 seconds | Denny Hamlin | Martin Truex Jr. |
| Spring Talladega Race | April 30, 2016 | 0.002 seconds | Aric Almirola | Danica Patrick |
Benefits of Watching Close Finishes in NASCAR
Experiencing close finishes is essential for both casual viewers and dedicated fans. Here are some benefits:
- Increased Excitement: The thrill of the race heightens emotional responses, making for an exhilarating viewing experience.
- Enhanced Understanding: Observing strategies employed during close finishes can provide insights into racing tactics and driver skill.
- Community Engagement: These moments often spark discussions among fans, creating a sense of community and shared passion for the sport.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions to Close Finishes
Fans often describe their reactions to close finishes as overwhelmingly emotional. Here are some common sentiments:
- Adrenaline Rush: Many fans report heart-racing moments as they watch their favorite drivers battle for position.
- Joy and Disappointment: Victories lead to jubilation, while narrow defeats can result in heartbreak.
- Memorable Moments: Fans cherish recounting stories of epic finishes, bonding over shared experiences.
Conclusion
NASCAR’s closest finishes are more than just statistics; they are moments that define the sport. From Kurt Busch’s historic 0.002 seconds victory to Kyle Larson’s commanding win at the Coca-Cola 600, these events are etched in the hearts and minds of fans. Close finishes not only enhance the excitement of the races but also contribute to the rich tapestry of NASCAR’s history, making every race worth watching.
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