Bubba Wallace claims racing is ‘everything for him’
Bubba Wallace had his career best 10th place finish in the standings in 2023.
Bubba Wallace and Tyler ReddicK (Via IMAGO)
As the 2023 season concluded, Bubba Wallace emerged not just as a driver but as a soul deeply intertwined with the essence of racing. Despite the absence of a victory in the 2023 season, Wallace’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication. Following his best season so far, the 23XI Racing driver acknowledged his love for racing, and that is all he knows.
Despite not clinching a victory, the 2023 season has been arguably the strongest season of the No;23 Toyota driver. Wallace secured his first-ever playoff berth, making this year his most successful. Opening the season with a 20th-place finish at the Daytona 500, he showcased consistent performance, accumulating five top 5 and ten top 10 finishes.
In a recent interview with Mobil1, Wallace reflected on his journey, emphasizing the significance of reaching the pinnacle level of the sport, the Cup series. “For me, racing is everything,” Wallace declared, reflecting on the zenith of his career in the coveted Cup series. The pinnacle level of the sport is not just a destination for him; it’s a sacred ground where he feels blessed and honored to ply his trade.
Expressing gratitude, he acknowledged the blessings and honor of pursuing his passion. His narrative unfolded as a testament to resilience, recounting the constant grind from uncertainty about future races to reclaiming a full-time seat. Speaking about his journey so far, he said,
It's been an interesting journey, and it's been a humbling one for sure.
Bubba Wallace asserts the onus is on each individual to discern their path to success
For Wallace, racing is not merely a profession but a way of life. He spoke passionately about the sport, stating, “All I’ve known is racing on the weekends for the last 20 years.” Recognizing the collective effort behind his success, Wallace acknowledged the support that propelled him forward. The competitive spirit resonated as he expressed his love for racing, understanding the unique opportunity at hand in a field where only one of 36 competitors emerges victorious.
The #23 driver delved into the intricacies of his career, emphasizing the personal responsibility of determining one’s trajectory. He reflected on the challenge of constantly evaluating oneself in the competitive landscape, noting;
It's up to you to figure out if you have what it takes to achieve that next level.
In a sport where pressure is omnipresent, Wallace admitted to the slippery slope of dealing with it. Reflecting on recent mistakes, he acknowledged the need for continuous growth, not just as a driver but also as an athlete and teammate. As he concluded, he addressed the demanding nature of NASCAR, stating;
It takes a lot of passion and determination from the rip.
Ten drivers who won in 2022 didn’t in 2023…
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) November 11, 2023
Of the eight returning, who makes it back to victory lane in 2024? #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/8vqJbhXzBx
Bubba Wallace’s 2023 season has not only showcased his racing prowess but also provided a glimpse into the dedication and tenacity required to navigate the competitive landscape of NASCAR. His journey is an inspiration, a reminder that success is not just about winning races but about evolving, learning, and continuously striving for greatness in the face of challenges.
In case you missed it:
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. admits he regrets his attitude in 2004 Cup title chase, says it was the ‘best year of his career’
- Dale Earnhardt Jr. claims that Mark Martin taught an entire NASCAR generation ‘how to race’
Rohit Bhaskar
(727 Articles Published)