“A unique opportunity,” Why Bubba Wallace is switching from No:23 to No:45 for playoffs
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Kurt Busch and Bubba Wallace
The 23X1 Racing had a disappointing end to their regular season as they don’t have any of their drivers racing in the playoffs for the championship chase. While Kurt Busch did make it into the playoff with his win in Kansas, the veteran was ruled out of the playoff due to the concussion-like symptoms he has been suffering from since his Pocono qualifying crash.
While Bubba Wallace failed to get the all-important win for the team as he couldn’t convert his late-season top 5 finishes to a success. Kurt Busch, who is yet to make a comeback, is substituted by young JGR Xfinity driver Ty Gibbs, who has been producing some good runs in the No:45 car though he is overworked by his double duty every week.
But now, the 23X1 management has decided to swap Bubba Wallace’s number with Ty Gibbs, which means that the former will, from now on, drive the No:45 car while the latter will cause the No:23 car. The change will only concern the numbers as there is no exchange between either the pit crew or the sponsors.
23XI Racing team president Steve Lauletta reveals why Bubba Wallace made the switch
The 23X1 Racing president Steve Lauletta acknowledged that they made the decision to switch numbers after consulting with NASCAR for the best interests of the entire organization. He added that they have also consulted with all their employees who helped them to get to the owner’s championship playoffs.
“After consulting with NASCAR, we made this decision in the best interest of the entire organization and for all our employees who helped earn a spot in the playoffs for the owners’ championship through their hard work,” Steve Lauletta said.
Steve Lauletta went on to say that the decision was made taking Bubba Wallace’s recent form and his cup experience into consideration so that they can maximize the pain they gain each weak for the 23X1 constructor’s championship battle. He added that they are grateful to the prisoners and crew for backing the organization’s decision.
“While Ty [Gibbs] has done a great job for us in the No. 45 car, we feel that Bubba’s experience in this car, at the upcoming playoff tracks, and his recent momentum will give 23XI the best chance at maximizing our points each weekend. We recognize that this is a unique opportunity in the Cup Series, and we’re grateful to our employees and partners for standing with the team and supporting this decision,” Steve Lauletta added.
Do you think 23X1 Racing did the right thing with the switch?
Also read: “We can go to Darlington and run in the top five for sure,” Kyle Busch on his 2022 post-season debut
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Justin P Joy
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