“I won’t lie!” Bubba Wallace crew chief shares true feeling about getting replaced for 2025 season
After suddenly getting replaced for the 2025 season, Bubba Wallace's former crew chief Bootie Barker reflected on his demotion.
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Bootie Barker and Bubba Wallace, image via Imagn
The bond between crew chiefs and drivers is essential in a sport like NASCAR and certain crew chief-driver pairs have been known for their longevity in the racing world. However, after a dismal 2024 season for the No.23 driver, 23XI Racing aimed to restructure the organization and replaced Bubba Wallace‘s former crew chief Bootie Barker with Charles Denike for the upcoming season. On the other hand, this shocking news caught Barker off guard, who was unhappy with the whole ordeal.
Bootie Barker had been Bubba Wallace‘s crew chief since the latter end of the 2021 season. Moreover, the duo had amassed two wins together but had a torrid 2024 season where the Toyota driver was unable to make it in the playoffs. In stark contrast, his teammate Tyler Reddick won the Regular season championship and made it to the final four in Phoenix.
This disparity in results seemingly got to the team owners, who made some changes in the No.23 team, including replacing Barker despite his vast experience. However, this change left the former crew chief discontented with the way 23XI Racing dealt with the issue and claimed that he was blind-sighted in the entire saga.
I won’t lie it was a surprise. It was a surprise. I will say this, I talked to Bubba before … as a crew chief, let’s just speak in generalities right now – rarely, does the crew chief get to set his own timetable or decide how he’s going to go out. It just doesn’t work that way. It’s just how it is
Bootie Barker said on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Despite the 53-year-old’s exit, Wallace is understood to have warm relations with Barker. Moreover, he would move on to take a different role at the team’s HQ at Airspeed, where he insisted that he would remain loyal to the team and work tirelessly.
Bubba Wallace’s new crew chief is ecstatic to begin his journey with Wallace
With Barker departing the No.23 crew, Charles Denike would make the jump up to the Cup Series from his prior role of heading the No.19 team in the Truck Series. On the other hand, this would make his every action count a lot more as the prize money increases multiplefold in the apex series.
Regardless of such repercussions, Denike seemed excited to partner up with Wallace during the next season. However, he would have to fill some heavy boots as the void left by Barker might hamper the team in the short term.
I am excited for the 2025 season with the No. 23 team and to work with Bubba and all of 23XI Racing beginning in the offseason. Bubba is a proven winner, and I believe we will bring out the best in each other. Thank you to Michael, Denny, and Dave for the opportunity to join the 23XI family. They have built an incredible culture at Airspeed. I am a believer that winning is a process… I am looking forward to this next chapter and to be able to contribute to 23XI’s growth and journey to winning championships.
Charles Denike said as per 23XI Racing’s press release
On the other hand, the 31-year-old’s place in the team is secure for years to come as he signed a contract extension earlier this year. Thus, implying that 23XI Racing has faith in Wallace despite his recent subpar performances.
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Geetansh Pasricha
(772 Articles Published)