Everyone loves a trip down memory lane! Whether it’s stumbling upon a forgotten Diecast model gathering dust on a shelf or rediscovering an old photo that evokes mixed emotions, nostalgia always seems to make its way into our hearts. 23XI Racing is currently basking in that nostalgic glow after Tyler Reddick secured their first major milestone—the 2024 regular-season championship. And he did it with none other than Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin by his side.
Just a few years ago, 23XI Racing was merely a rumor, a whisper in the racing world. Now, as the team heads into the playoffs, they’re all smiles. But amid the success, 23XI’s social media team pulled off a Throwback Thursday masterstroke that left the NASCAR community buzzing. From a long-haired Tyler Reddick flaunting an Iron Maiden tee to Bubba Wallace sporting a buzz cut and flashy shades, the team’s drivers couldn’t help but blush as they took part in this playful PR stunt.
Reddick and Wallace Revisit the Pre-23XI Racing Days
While the fun continues on social media, things aren’t as picture-perfect behind the scenes at 23XI Racing. Despite Reddick’s key victories and the team’s championship run, Bubba Wallace has struggled, failing to secure a spot in the Round of 16. This has left him out of the running for the ultimate prize. As if that wasn’t enough, a significant rift has emerged between 23XI Racing and NASCAR over a newly updated charter agreement that Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin’s ownership group declined to sign. If a deal isn’t struck soon, 23XI Racing may face an unthinkable future—being off the grid next year. It’s not just about the fate of Reddick and Wallace, but also the livelihoods of hundreds of employees who pour their heart and soul into fielding competitive cars week in and week out.
Yet, despite the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future, both Reddick and Wallace are gearing up for next weekend’s race at Watkins Glen. Although 23XI has yet to claim a victory at this iconic track, the team’s two wins and regular-season championship in 2024 serve as a testament to their resilience and potential. To lighten the mood, the team’s social media crew took a creative turn, involving Reddick and Wallace in a fun activity where they autographed old photos of themselves. It was a refreshing moment of levity amid the mounting pressure, showing that even when the stakes are high, the camaraderie within 23XI Racing remains strong.
Bubba Wallace kicked off the throwback event by signing a photo from his early NASCAR days. As the image was revealed, fans were treated to a young Wallace from 2011, standing with Rev Racing. “This was production day for 2011. Rev Racing, I think,” Wallace recalled. But the next photo stirred more laughs as Wallace, rocking a pair of wayfarer sunglasses, looked visibly amused. “I know which one this is. That’s before lip injections were a thing,” he quipped, embracing the fun throwback with ease.
On the other hand, Tyler Reddick, 23XI’s regular-season champion, wasn’t quite as easygoing about the blast from his past. Initially, Reddick resisted even looking at the photos, visibly embarrassed. When he finally did, he wasn’t too pleased. The #45 driver crumpled up the first picture and tossed it at a 23XI media employee, playfully expressing his discomfort with his younger, long-haired self. Sporting golden locks that extended beyond his shoulders, Reddick’s look from his early ARCA days channeled a full-blown ’80s rockstar vibe—a far cry from the clean-cut image he sports today.
Fans Go Wild Over 23XI Racing’s Throwback
Once the throwback video hit Instagram, the response from fans was overwhelming. The relatable content resonated with the NASCAR community, sparking a flood of comments. One fan shared, “Anytime anyone’s egos get too big, there’s ALWAYS the old promo or childhood photos to bring it back down. That goes for ALL of us.” Another sympathized with Reddick’s visible embarrassment, writing, “Y’all did Reddick dirty lol.” Some fans reminisced about Reddick’s long-haired days, with one noting, “That is how I will always see Tyler—driving a late model with long hair.”
A particularly heartwarming comment came from Instagram user @micahjamyson, who claimed to have cut Reddick’s hair over a decade ago. “I remember getting to cut your hair off @tyler_reddick…. Can’t believe that was over 10 years ago!” Other fans chimed in with their own memories, including a comment recalling, “There’s the little kid who used to yell into the microphone playing COD.” Meanwhile, Reddick’s Iron Maiden T-shirt drew admiration, with many fans praising his rockstar look.
The throwback provided a light-hearted distraction from the intense pressure surrounding 23XI Racing. As the team faces uncertainty on and off the track, moments like these remind fans and drivers alike to take a step back and enjoy the journey.
A Glimpse of Hope Amidst the Chaos
While Reddick continues to push 23XI Racing forward with strong performances, the future remains uncertain for both the team and Bubba Wallace. The unresolved charter negotiations loom large, threatening the team’s place on the grid for next season. Yet, despite the challenges, 23XI Racing has proven they are more than just a team driven by results. They’re a group that knows how to stay grounded, keep things fun, and engage with their fans, even when the stakes couldn’t be higher.
As 23XI Racing navigates the pressures of the 2024 season, fans will be watching closely, rooting for the team to not only thrive on the track but also solidify their future. And while the fate of the charter deal may remain uncertain, the throwback serves as a reminder that, in the world of NASCAR, there’s always room for a bit of fun—even in the face of adversity.
