23XI Racing driver Bubba Wallace is maintaining a positive outlook despite falling short of qualifying for the NASCAR playoffs this season. In a recent interview, he candidly shared his reflections on the situation and discussed what lies ahead both in his professional racing career and personal life.
Wallace had a strong showing during the final regular-season race at the Cook Out Southern 500 in Darlington. He led for 37 laps and even claimed the pole position, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level. Despite his efforts, Wallace missed the playoffs, while his teammate Tyler Reddick advanced after securing the regular season championship.
During a media interaction, Wallace admitted that while it was tough not to make the playoffs, he remained happy for his team and chose to focus on the positives. “On the outside looking in, it sucks, you know, but at the same time, you’re happy for the team,” Wallace said, acknowledging both his disappointment and the success his team experienced (0:09). He recognized the bittersweet nature of the outcome but emphasized his support for his teammate’s success, a reflection of his team-oriented mindset.
Beyond the racetrack, Wallace’s attention is also focused on an exciting chapter in his personal life. He and his wife are expecting their first child in October, a significant milestone that coincides with his 31st birthday on October 8. Wallace expressed his excitement for the new journey ahead, saying, “I’m about to have a kid. So, things are going to change. I’m good, though. It’s a new weekend. I’ll put all the BS aside and go out and have a good time” (1:23). His words conveyed a readiness to embrace fatherhood, signaling a new perspective that will likely shape his approach to life both on and off the track.
Despite the setback of missing the playoffs, Wallace remains determined to continue striving for success in the remaining races of the season. He spoke highly of his team’s efforts, highlighting the competitive edge that 23XI Racing consistently brings to each race. Wallace emphasized that his team has been performing well and that the quality of their cars has been a key factor in their competitiveness. “All you can ask for is just to be competitive, and that’s where we’re at. So, it’s fun having the pressure of figuring it out when the weekend starts because you know that the car’s capable of winning,” Wallace remarked (00:41). While he acknowledged that he needs to step up his own performance, he remains optimistic about the future, confident that his team has the tools needed to succeed.
Looking forward, Wallace is eager to use the next 10 weeks to push himself and his team further, despite missing the playoff cut. His determination to improve and make the most of the remainder of the season speaks to his resilience as a driver and his unwavering commitment to progress.
Reflecting on his recent pole position, Wallace celebrated a personal milestone by earning his first pole of the 2024 season during qualifying at Darlington. His lap time of 29.421 seconds at 167.146 mph was just fast enough to edge out Kyle Larson for the top spot. Securing the pole position represented a major achievement for Wallace and marked his third career pole overall.
Wallace expressed relief after landing the top spot in qualifying, noting that the pressure seemed to have shifted in a positive way. “Looking at us coming in, being on the bubble, 21 points out, a ton of pressure, well, I think the pressure just switched,” he said, acknowledging how this accomplishment gave him a much-needed confidence boost. However, his No. 23 Toyota was unfortunately involved in a crash with 22 laps remaining, preventing him from catching Chris Buescher, who managed to get ahead toward the end of the race.
In summary, although Bubba Wallace missed out on the NASCAR playoffs, his positive attitude, strong support for his team, and excitement for the future suggest that he remains motivated both in his career and personal life. He’s determined to finish the season strong and is ready to take on the challenges that come his way, both as a driver and as a soon-to-be father.
