Kyle Leduc Obituary – Death: The Off-Road Racing Star passed away at tragic accident
Kyle LeDuc, an iconic presence in the realm of off-road racing, left an enduring legacy marked by seven Pro 4 truck championships, a plethora of triumphs, and a dynamic, aggressive driving style that resonated with millions of fans. A trailblazer who embraced innovation, Kyle ventured into the realm of electric racing with the Extreme E series, achieving a historic victory for Chip Ganassi Racing. Tragically, his extraordinary life and illustrious career were abruptly halted by a grim diagnosis of stage IV head and neck cancer. On November 11, 2023, the tight-knit off-road community collectively mourned the loss of their champion.
Born on November 15, 1981, in Cherry Valley, California, Kyle was the son of Curt LeDuc, a revered off-road racer and Hall of Famer. Immersed in off-road culture from a young age and inspired by his father, Kyle made his mark in the late 1990s. Swiftly showcasing his prowess, he secured his first championship in the Pro Lite class in 2003. Transitioning to the challenging Pro 4 class in 2006, Kyle overcame formidable competition, earning his first Pro 4 victory in 2007 and his inaugural Pro 4 championship in 2008. His dominance persisted, claiming additional titles in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019, with notable achievements like 12 consecutive wins in 2015 and sweeping all four rounds at Crandon International Raceway in 2016 and 2017.
In 2020, Kyle embraced a new frontier, joining the electric off-road racing series, Extreme E, to raise awareness about climate change. Paired with Sara Price for Chip Ganassi Racing, they navigated challenges, adapting to a new vehicle, racing in remote locales, and overcoming technical hurdles. Triumphantly, they secured podium finishes in the initial rounds in Saudi Arabia and Senegal. The pinnacle arrived in Greenland, where they made history by winning the first Island X Prix, marking Chip Ganassi Racing’s maiden victory in Extreme E.
However, the elation was short-lived. Upon returning from Greenland, Kyle received the devastating diagnosis of stage IV head and neck cancer in June 2021. Despite withdrawing from the racing season, Kyle faced his battle with cancer valiantly, enduring chemotherapy and radiation treatments while maintaining an optimistic demeanor. The racing community, alongside his family, friends, and fans, rallied to provide unwavering support and assistance with his medical expenses. Kyle remained connected with his team and the broader off-road community, sharing updates and progress on his journey through social media.
