Kurt Busch has ruled out returning to race in the 100th edition of the Indianapolis 500 this May as part of a double attack on that race and the NASCAR event at Charlotte later that evening.
Busch raced in both races back in 2014, competing in the Indy 500 with Andretti Autosport before flying across to Charlotte to race in the Coca-Cola 600 with Stewart-Haas Racing.
The American endured engine problems during his NASCAR race, but impressed many by finishing sixth in the Indy 500 and earning the Rookie of the Year title.
But Busch, who currently sits seventh in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series standings, has stated on his Facebook page that he will not be attempting the double in 2016, despite showing interest once more.
“After seriously contemplating making another run at “The Double”, and in response to the many questions I receive on the subject as the Month of May approaches, I wanted to state that I will not be participating in this year’s 100th running of the Indianapolis 500,” said Busch.
“I must say this was not an easy decision and it does not in any way reflect upon my desire to compete again in one of the world’s greatest races. It is based solely on a need to maintain the focus and momentum we have built early in this NASCAR season with our #41 Stewart-Haas Racing, Haas Automation/Monster Energy Chevy team – hopefully all the way to Homestead and the championship weekend.
“My experience with Andretti Autosport and its drivers was so very positive and the way in which the IndyCar fans and media welcomed me, it is undoubtedly one of the highlights of my career both personally and professionally.
“Fortunately, Michael and Indianapolis Motor Speedway have left the door open for a future run, and perhaps one day I will take them up on that. It just won’t be this year.”
