Dale Earnhardt Jr. Stylishly pissing off bubba Wallace as he use him as a bad example for poor racing…..
Dale Earnhardt Jr., a name synonymous with NASCAR racing, has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind. Recently, the legendary driver-turned-analyst took to his podcast to express his growing frustration with what he perceives as a lack of racing etiquette in modern NASCAR. The former Daytona 500 champion vented his concerns, using Bubba Wallace as an example to illustrate the decline in track manners and sportsmanship that’s become more apparent in recent races.
Racing etiquette is a key part of NASCAR culture. It’s an unwritten code that drivers follow to ensure fair play, respect for each other, and the safety of everyone on the track. At its core, racing etiquette is about knowing when to push the limits and when to back off, allowing other drivers space to maneuver without causing unnecessary collisions or drama. The greatest NASCAR drivers are often respected not just for their skill, but for how they conduct themselves on the track.
However, in recent years, many, including Dale Jr., have noticed a shift in this aspect of the sport. The increase in younger, more aggressive drivers has brought a change in attitude. The win-at-all-costs mentality, while thrilling to fans, can come at the expense of respect among competitors. Dale Jr. highlighted this trend, particularly pointing to Bubba Wallace’s recent behavior in some high-pressure moments as an example of what he believes to be a larger problem.
While Dale Jr. wasn’t necessarily calling out Bubba Wallace in a negative light, he used him as a relatable figure to emphasize his point. Wallace, who has faced immense pressure in his racing career due to his outspokenness and role as the sport’s only Black full-time driver, has become known for his aggressive driving style. Dale Jr. acknowledged Wallace’s talent but expressed concerns over moments where Bubba, in pursuit of victories, has crossed the line of what Dale Jr. would consider proper racing etiquette.
“I’m not saying Bubba isn’t talented—he’s got it in him to win big races,” Dale Jr. said on his podcast. “But there are times when he’s made moves on the track that don’t show the same level of respect we used to have for each other. It’s not just him, but it’s something I’ve noticed across the field.”
Aggression is a necessary part of racing. After all, NASCAR is a highly competitive sport where speed, split-second decisions, and willingness to take risks often determine who crosses the finish line first. However, there is a fine line between aggression and outright disregard for racing etiquette. Dale Jr. has always been an advocate for aggressive but respectful racing—where drivers push the limits but do so within the bounds of safety and respect for their fellow competitors.
One of the incidents Dale Jr. referenced occurred during a race earlier this season when Bubba Wallace made a bold move, causing contact with another driver that could have led to a major accident. While Bubba avoided the wreck, it left many, including Dale Jr., questioning whether the move was necessary or if it was an example of a growing problem within the sport—drivers taking unnecessary risks without considering the potential consequences for others.
Dale Jr.’s frustration isn’t just about a single incident or driver, but rather a reflection of how NASCAR’s culture has changed over time. The new generation of drivers, influenced by social media and the increasing stakes of winning in a high-profile sport, may be contributing to this shift in racing etiquette. The push to perform, gain sponsorships, and make a name in NASCAR is more intense than ever before.
“Back in the day, we knew when to give and take on the track,” Dale Jr. explained. “There was a mutual respect. Nowadays, some of these guys are willing to run over each other to get that extra spot. It’s like they’ve forgotten that it’s a long season, and there’s more than one race.”
Dale Jr. is not calling for drivers to be less competitive—far from it. He respects the fire and drive that the new crop of NASCAR stars brings to the sport. But he, along with other veteran drivers and fans, hopes to see a return to a balanced approach. Aggression and etiquette can coexist, but it requires a shift in mindset and a respect for the traditions of NASCAR.
As Dale Jr. concluded, “We need to find that balance again. I love this sport, and I want to see these young guys succeed, but I also want them to remember the values that made NASCAR great in the first place.”
In the end, Dale Jr.’s words serve as a reminder that while NASCAR may be evolving, some things—like respect and etiquette on the track—should always remain a constant.
