StarKist® and the Busch Family Ignite NASCAR Season in 2026

Fuel good, feel good is taking center stage as the NASCAR season revs up at Daytona this year. StarKist Co., in partnership with NASCAR champion Kyle Busch, wellness advocate Samantha Busch, and rising youth racer Brexton Busch, is kicking off a new chapter in their collaboration.

Expanding a Successful Partnership

Building on the achievements of their first year, the 2026 partnership focuses on how the Busch family incorporates StarKist products into their hectic schedules—from thrilling race weekends to busy family days at home. As they gear up for the Daytona 500, StarKist is committed to promoting high-quality, ready-to-eat protein that fuels both performance and everyday victories.

Words from the Team

“Kyle, Samantha, and Brexton are always moving at incredible speeds both on and off the track,” says Michael Merritt Jr., Vice President and Head of Marketing & Innovation at StarKist. “We’re thrilled to continue our collaboration with the Busch family and excited to see how they incorporate StarKist’s high-quality protein products to fuel their performances and busy lives.”

Fueling Champions

Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion and the winningest driver in NASCAR history, relies on simple, accessible nutrition to maintain his hectic lifestyle. StarKist’s Tuna, Chicken, and Salmon Creations® pouches offer lean, ready-to-eat protein that fits seamlessly into his busy regimen.

“It’s going to be another great year with our friends at StarKist. I grew up with the brand, and I’m a big fan,” shares Kyle Busch. “Daytona sets the tone for a long season, and racing 500 miles requires laser focus and sustained energy. I never slow down, so I depend on StarKist’s delicious high-quality lean protein to stay fueled and focused.”

Samantha’s Perspective

Samantha Busch plays a vital role in the partnership, discussing how StarKist supports her dynamic lifestyle. “Between running my business, hosting my podcast, and managing my family’s busy racing schedule, life is always in motion,” she notes. “I prioritize protein at every meal to keep energized. StarKist provides a convenient protein choice I feel good about, effortlessly fitting into our fast-paced lives.”

Brexton: The Next Generation

Joining the conversation is Brexton Busch, representing the future of motorsports. Together, the Busch family embodies a relatable, real-life approach to the idea of fuelling good and feeling good throughout the year.

StarKist Product Highlights

StarKist offers over 40 delicious ready-to-eat protein solutions, making fueling on-the-go both simple and enjoyable:

• StarKist® Tuna & Salmon Pouches: Wild-caught tuna and salmon in flavor-packed, ready-to-eat options with 12–17g of protein per pouch.
• StarKist® Lunch-To-Go® Kits: Complete lunch kits featuring tuna salad and crackers, delivering 15–19g of protein per kit.
• StarKist® Snack-To-Go™ Kits: Ready-to-eat tuna salad snack kits with crackers, offering 11g of protein per kit.
• StarKist® Smart Bowls®: Fully cooked grain bowls with wild-caught tuna and hearty vegetables, providing 10–12g of protein and 3–5g of fiber per pouch.
• StarKist® Chicken Pouches: Fully cooked, ready-to-eat chicken in various tasty options with 10–13g of protein per pouch.

Each of these products delivers at least 10g of lean protein, catering to consumer preferences for portion control and satisfying meals without hassle.

Celebrating Daytona with Fans

To kick off the second year of the StarKist x Busch family partnership, fans can follow StarKist on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and surprises!

StarKist will maintain a robust presence throughout the NASCAR season with brand integrations across Kyle Busch’s race gear, Samantha Busch’s podcast, Brexton’s cars and fire suit, and various family digital platforms.

Images: StarKist Co