Bubba Wallace

American professional stock car racing driver

William Darrell "Bubba" Wallace Jr. (born October 8, 1993) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 23 Toyota Camry for 23XI Racing, a team owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan. Wallace is noted for being one of the most successful African American drivers in the history of NASCAR.

Early life and career

Wallace was born in Mobile, Alabama, and raised in Concord, North Carolina. He began racing at the age of nine in the Bandolero and Legends car racing series. Wallace quickly progressed through the ranks, moving to late model stock cars by the age of 15.

NASCAR career

K&N Pro Series East

Bubba Wallace racing in the K&N Pro Series East

Wallace began his NASCAR career in the K&N Pro Series East in 2010, driving for Rev Racing as part of NASCAR's Drive for Diversity program. He won his first race at Greenville-Pickens Speedway in 2010, becoming the youngest driver to win at the track.

Camping World Truck Series

In 2013, Wallace joined Kyle Busch Motorsports to compete in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. He made history by becoming the first African American driver to win a NASCAR national series race since Wendell Scott in 1963, with his victory at Martinsville Speedway in 2013.

Bubba Wallace driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2013

Xfinity Series

Wallace moved to the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2015, driving for Roush Fenway Racing. He achieved several top-ten finishes and continued to build his reputation as a competitive driver.

Bubba Wallace racing in the Xfinity Series at Road America in 2015

Cup Series

Wallace made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2017, substituting for the injured Aric Almirola in the No. 43 car for Richard Petty Motorsports. In 2020, he joined 23XI Racing, a new team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin.

Bubba Wallace at driver introductions in Las Vegas, 2024

Advocacy and impact

Wallace has been an outspoken advocate for racial equality and social justice. In 2020, he successfully called for the banning of the Confederate flag at NASCAR events. Wallace's activism has brought significant attention to issues of diversity and inclusion within the sport.

Personal life

Wallace is known for his engaging personality and has a strong presence on social media. He is also involved in various charitable activities and has been a role model for young drivers aspiring to enter the sport.

Related pages

• NASCAR Cup Series
• 23XI Racing
• Michael Jordan
• Denny Hamlin