Why NASCAR’s only black Cup driver Bubba Wallace had to wait ‘six months’ to get his driver’s license?

Bubba Wallace won his first race when he was 28, whereas the average age of a NASCAR Cup debut is at around 30 years of age.

Why NASCAR’s only black Cup driver Bubba Wallace had to wait ‘six months’ to get his driver’s license?

Bubba Wallace (Via IMAGO)

Bubba Wallace, the sole black driver on the NASCAR Cup Series grid, has carved a distinctive path in the racing world. He achieved prominence in NASCAR not just through accomplishments on the track but also via humorous and relatable experiences. The 23XI Racing driver shared a surprising reason behind his six-month wait to obtain his driver’s license.

Commencing his NASCAR journey at the tender age of nine, the 23XI Racing driver, navigated a path fraught with racism. Undeterred, he evolved into a trailblazer, clinching a historic triumph as the inaugural Black driver in the Cup Series since 1963 and earning a coveted place in the NASCAR postseason.

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In The Bobby Jones interview two years ago, Wallace discussed his unconventional driving license journey. Admitting to failing the computer test, Wallace explained;

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I passed my written, failed the computer test because the damn signs that you never see. Some damn rural podunk town and it’s like I’ve never seen that before! I waited like 6 months. I was in no hurry to get my driver’s license.

The #23 driver also shared about his initial driving experience behind the wheel on the road where he wasn’t as controlled as he is on the ovals. He said;

The first time I actually drove a car on the road, I ran off the road twice when traffic came at me because I had never experienced that before.

Bubba Wallace confesses road rage, admits to wanting to bumper-tap the people ahead

Wallace also shared his experiences with road rage and it became evident that even NASCAR’s elite are not immune to the frustrations of everyday driving. Asked about road rage, Wallace didn’t shy away from sharing his frustrations. He admitted;

I get annoyed, especially with road rage.
Bubba Wallace angry
Bubba Wallace (Credits: Motorsport.com)

Describing a relatable scenario, he expressed irritation when drivers pull out in front of him and don’t accelerate to the speed limit promptly. He continued that he often has the idea of rubbing them on the road. Wallace said;

I often wish at times like it was okay to just use the bumper and just, 'Hey, let's go,' and shove you down the road.

Furthermore, the interview touched upon the public’s curiosity about racing on the streets. When asked if people wanted to challenge him to a race, Wallace quipped that he had his windows tinted and never had any problem. In conclusion, Wallace’s license test hurdles hint he conquers racetracks better than the maze of road signs.

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