Busch, Gant, and Hendrick elected to NASCAR Hall of Fame class of 2026

LONDON: The NASCAR Hall of Fame announced Tuesday that Kurt Busch, Harry Gant, and Ray Hendrick will be inducted as part of the prestigious Class of 2026.

Busch and Gant were chosen from the Modern Era Ballot, each receiving 61 percent of the vote. Just missing the cut were Jeff Burton, Harry Hyde, and Randy Dorton. Hendrick was selected from the Pioneer Ballot with 31 percent of the vote, edging out Bob Welborn.

Kurt Busch, 46, earned induction in his first year of eligibility. The 2004 Cup Series champion boasts 34 career wins, including marquee victories at the Coca-Cola 600 in 2010 and the Daytona 500 in 2017.

Harry Gant, now 85, adds this honor to an already illustrious resume that includes a place in the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. Gant claimed 18 Cup Series wins and 21 Xfinity Series victories. He remains the oldest driver to win a Cup Series race, doing so at 52 years and eight months at Michigan in 1992.

Ray Hendrick, who passed away in 1990, carved a legendary path in modified stock car racing, earning the nickname “Mr. Modified.” Over his 36-year career, he amassed over 700 victories across various series, becoming a fixture of Southern motorsports.

The induction ceremony promises to be a celebration of excellence, longevity, and innovation in NASCAR history.(Reuters)