Bubba Wallace aims for first 2025 NASCAR Cup Series win as he enters the season’s critical summer phase, bringing renewed optimism for the upcoming Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway on June 1. The Alabama native, competing for 23XI Racing, is positioned in the top ten of the championship standings, motivated to convert strong performances into a long-awaited victory.
Wallace’s season so far and current standings
After twelve races in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, Bubba Wallace has accumulated two top-five finishes and four top-ten results, showcasing consistent competitiveness. He has spent time at the front of the pack, leading 103 laps in total, and currently holds the 10th spot in the overall standings with 310 points. Meanwhile, his teammate Tyler Reddick leads the 23XI Racing effort as he sits sixth with 357 points, emphasizing the team’s strong presence this year.
Strength at intermediate tracks and growing confidence
Wallace has shown particular strength at intermediate tracks like Kansas and Texas, fueling his confidence as the calendar approaches several similar circuits.
“I was really happy with the car the first 30 laps of Kansas; we had our penalty and then were mired back in traffic and weren’t the same there. But I was really happy with how the weekend went. Texas – really happy with how the weekend went up until we crashed.“
—Bubba Wallace, Driver
“But we’re getting stage points now, we’re competitive, our name is in the hat. We just now have to close out the deal. I think through the summer stretch, yes, I’m excited for what’s next,” he added.
—Bubba Wallace, Driver
These recent performances have left Wallace feeling optimistic as he moves into the sport’s demanding summer stretch, with a renewed focus on closing races with wins rather than just solid outings.
Upcoming highlight events in the summer schedule
Looking ahead, Wallace is preparing for the 66th running of the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway during the Memorial Day weekend. Scheduled for May 25, this prestigious 400-lap event will be broadcast on Prime Video starting at 6 pm ET, while fans can follow the action via PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Christopher Bell, another standout Toyota driver, enters as defending champion after a strong showing at North Wilkesboro, victories that signal momentum for the Joe Gibbs Racing camp.
Wallace’s bond with spotter Freddie Kraft and playful exchanges
In the days leading up to the Jack Link’s 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, Freddie Kraft—Wallace’s long-time spotter—shared his perspective on revisiting past races through video replays. Kraft’s candid comments sparked a friendly, public exchange, underlining the camaraderie the two share both on and off the track.
“Rewatching races at Talladega is bad for the blood pressure. Especially when you can see the mistakes you made coming all over again.”
—Freddie Kraft, Spotter
“You make mistakes?? Never thought we’d hear that..Remember 1st step is admitting. Proud of you buddy. Takes a lot of courage and apparently 15 years..We listen and don’t judge.”
—Bubba Wallace, Driver
The friendship between Wallace and Kraft dates back to 2010, when Wallace began his journey in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. Their teamwork has produced notable achievements, including wins at Talladega in 2021 and Kansas in 2022—marking the only two times Wallace has secured victory in the NASCAR Cup Series to date. This solid partnership continues to influence Wallace’s approach to racing, offering a platform of trust and motivation.
What the summer could mean for Wallace’s season
Bubba Wallace’s consistent performances and unwavering confidence suggest he is well-positioned to claim his first 2025 NASCAR Cup Series win as the summer portion of the calendar unfolds. Surrounded by a strong team and a supportive inner circle, Wallace looks set to capitalize on upcoming opportunities at intermediate tracks, building on his established record of perseverance and growth within the sport.
