Kyle Busch set for Cup debut

Busch will drive a fifth Hendrick Motorsports entry at Florida, the team he drives for in the second-tier Busch Series. Should he qualify Busch, who turned 18 on May 2 this year, will become one of the youngest drivers to start a Cup race in NASCAR's modern era.

"It's important for me to spend more time in the seat," said Busch. "This is an opportunity to make some laps with the best drivers in the world and build toward the 2004 Busch Series season. It will be, first and foremost, a learning experience."

Team owner Rich Hendrick added: "This is an excellent way for Kyle to gain some additional experience. Our goal is for him to spend as much time behind the wheel as possible before next season and this is a great way to accomplish that."

Busch has made six Busch Series starts since he reached NASCAR's minimum age of 18, finishing second on two occasions. He has also run in seven ARCA races this year, taking two victories and two poles. Next year Busch will run full-time in the Busch Series, taking over from fellow teenage sensation Brian Vickers, who will move up to the Nextel Cup with Hendrick.