Bootie Barker has expressed his understanding, albeit surprise, regarding the decision to split him from driver Bubba Wallace for the 2024 season. Wallace had his most consistent season to date, finishing 13th in championship points and achieving career-best stats in average finish, top-10s, and top-5s. However, he failed to secure a win for the second consecutive year and missed the Playoffs after qualifying for the first time last year.
Despite Wallace’s contract extension during the summer, 23XI Racing decided to pair him with a new crew chief, Charles Denike, from McNally Racing in the Truck Series. Meanwhile, Barker will transition to a shop-based role.
“It was a surprise,” Barker shared on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Reflecting on the change, he noted that crew chiefs rarely dictate their own timelines or exits, acknowledging that such decisions are often out of their control. Having spent over two decades as a Cup Series crew chief, Barker didn’t anticipate the split happening at this point in his tenure with Wallace.
Drawing comparisons, he mentioned the historical separation of Richard Petty and Dale Inman, though he clarified that the circumstances were different. “When a crew chief… it’s just part of the deal. It’s to be expected,” he said, suggesting that such changes are inevitable in the sport.
Barker admitted he initially struggled to process the decision. “I thought we were close to making the Playoffs again and could keep building momentum,” he explained. While he had a sense of how things might unfold in the long run, the timing caught him off guard. “It took me a bit to get my head around it. I won’t lie,” he confessed.
Nevertheless, Barker praised 23XI Racing for their handling of the situation, particularly how team co-owners Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin made him feel respected and appreciated. “No one told me I sucked or anything like that,” he said, emphasizing the supportive nature of their discussions.
As Barker works through the details of his new role, he remains optimistic. He affirmed his commitment to returning because he feels valued and believes he can continue contributing positively to the team.
Crew chief Bootie Barker surprised by decision to split with Bubba Wallace
