☰
23XI Racing has officially secured Bubba Wallace’s future with the team by announcing a multiyear contract extension. Since joining the organization at its inception in 2020, Wallace has become a central figure in its growth, and this extension solidifies his long-term role with the team. Co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing gained widespread attention when Wallace was named as their first driver, and their partnership has led to significant accomplishments both on and off the racetrack.
Wallace’s time with 23XI Racing has been marked by key milestones, including his historic victory at Talladega Superspeedway in 2021. This win gave the team its first NASCAR Cup Series triumph and was a defining moment, not only for Wallace but also for the organization, cementing their status as a competitive presence in the sport. Wallace further showcased his abilities in 2022 by earning the team’s first pole position at Michigan International Speedway.
In addition to these achievements, Wallace’s consistent performance has been crucial to 23XI Racing’s rise in stature. His career-best streak of four consecutive top-10 finishes in 2022 demonstrated his improving racecraft and growing confidence. Furthermore, his first-ever appearance in the NASCAR Playoffs in 2023 highlights his upward trajectory, reflecting the team’s belief that he can lead them to even greater success in the coming years.
Off the track, Wallace has become an influential ambassador for NASCAR, advocating for diversity and inclusion in a sport that has historically lacked representation. His efforts include initiatives such as the Dr. Pepper 23XI Speed Institute Tuition Program, which provides educational opportunities for students, and community-focused events like Bubba’s Block Party, designed to engage younger and more diverse audiences with NASCAR.
Through his work with the Live to Be Different Foundation, Wallace has supported numerous community efforts, including back-to-school backpack drives and educational programs at NASCAR events through the Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP). These endeavors align closely with 23XI Racing’s values, further enhancing Wallace’s importance to the organization.
Team co-owner Denny Hamlin has consistently praised Wallace for his contributions on and off the track. In a recent statement, Hamlin reflected on the impact Wallace has had since the team’s formation, emphasizing how Wallace has been key to the organization’s growth. “When we brought Bubba on as our first driver, the goal was to elevate his career, and we’ve achieved that,” Hamlin noted. “Bubba and the No. 23 team earned us our first win and pole position, and his growth as a competitor continues week after week.”
Wallace’s influence also extends beyond NASCAR. His partnerships with major brands like McDonald’s and Columbia Sportswear, along with his design collaborations, have helped bring the sport into the cultural spotlight. Wallace has played a vital role in attracting a younger and more diverse fan base, aligning with 23XI Racing’s broader goal of expanding NASCAR’s reach.
For Wallace, this contract extension is a clear sign of confidence from the team’s leadership. In a statement, he expressed gratitude to co-owners Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin for their continued support. “It feels great to have this renewal in place and to know that 23XI Racing is my home,” Wallace said. “We’ve come a long way together in just a couple of years, hitting key milestones like the team’s first win and first pole.”
As Wallace and 23XI Racing look ahead, their focus is on further growth and success. While the team has already accomplished much, both Wallace and the organization are eager to achieve more victories and continue building momentum as they strive to become one of NASCAR’s premier teams. With the contract extension now confirmed, both Wallace and 23XI Racing are positioned to continue breaking new ground and reaching greater heights in the sport.