Bubba Wallace has faced his share of challenges over the past two years, but his influence in NASCAR continues to grow. As the face of 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, Wallace has become a symbol of resilience, inspiring both fans and fellow drivers. Among his admirers is Riley Herbst, who has now joined 23XI as their newest Cup Series driver for 2025. Herbst views Wallace as a role model and hopes to emulate his success as he embarks on this new chapter.
The addition of Herbst marks 23XI Racing’s expansion to a three-car lineup, a move that had been widely anticipated. While legal battles regarding antitrust laws initially cast uncertainty over the team, they have since regained stability, allowing Herbst to focus on the challenges ahead. Entering a team alongside seasoned drivers like Wallace and Tyler Reddick is no small feat, but Herbst is ready to prove himself. “I’ve been working hard with the 23XI team, learning from Bubba and Tyler,” Herbst shared. “It’s a big challenge, but I’m more than ready to take it on.”
Wallace’s 2024 season ended with six top-10 finishes and an 18th-place overall ranking. While he didn’t secure a win, his consistent performance and ability to attract sponsors have solidified his status as a key figure in the sport. As the only Black driver on the grid, Wallace continues to break barriers, inspiring Herbst and others to strive for greatness. Meanwhile, Reddick has also set a high bar, achieving career-best stats in 2024, including three wins, 12 top-five finishes, and leading the team to their first Championship race appearance.
Herbst brings his own impressive credentials to 23XI. At just 24 years old, he has already claimed two Xfinity Series wins in 2024 and made eight career Cup Series starts, including a 24th-place finish at the Daytona 500. Joining 23XI represents a dream come true for Herbst, who expressed his excitement about contributing to the team’s growth. “What 23XI has accomplished in such a short time is incredible,” he said. “I’m honored to be part of this journey.”
With the support of his veteran teammates and the guidance of his former Xfinity crew chief, Davin Restivo, Herbst is poised to make his mark in the 2025 NASCAR season.
