An iconic number in modern NASCAR is being put on hold for the next generation.
Richard Childress Racing has announced that it will suspend use of the No. 8 Chevrolet beginning with the upcoming race weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Moving forward, the organization will instead campaign the No. 33, bringing an end — at least for now — to one of the most recognizable numbers in the garage.
The decision is deeply tied to Kyle Busch, who helped transform the No. 8 into a modern NASCAR staple during his tenure with RCR. Busch was reportedly instrumental in the creation and design of the team’s stylized No. 8, a look that quickly became synonymous with the two-time Cup Series champion and his loyal fanbase.
Over the past several seasons, the No. 8 has become more than just a car number. It evolved into a brand identity tied directly to Busch’s aggressive driving style, championship pedigree, and larger-than-life presence within the sport.
RCR’s announcement makes it clear the organization views the number as something that should remain uniquely connected to Busch and his family legacy.
“No one can carry it forward to the level that he did,” the team stated, emphasizing the impact Busch had on elevating the No. 8 into one of NASCAR’s signature numbers.
Rather than allowing another driver to inherit the number immediately, RCR is choosing to reserve it for Busch’s son, Brexton Busch, whenever he is ready to climb the NASCAR ladder himself.
Brexton has already become a familiar name to racing fans through his appearances in youth racing circuits and social media content alongside his father. While still years away from NASCAR’s top levels, the move signals that RCR envisions the No. 8 eventually returning as part of a continuation of the Busch family racing legacy.
The switch to the No. 33 also revives another recognizable number from RCR history. The number has previously been associated with several notable drivers and moments throughout the organization’s decades-long presence in NASCAR.
For longtime fans, however, the announcement represents the closing of a memorable chapter. The No. 8 became one of the sport’s most visible symbols during Busch’s run with RCR, and now the team is ensuring that legacy remains intact until the next Busch is ready to take the wheel.
