Bubba Wallace recently shared new insight into Michael Jordan’s approach to racing, highlighting why the legendary Chicago Bulls champion, now owner of 23XI Racing, refuses to get behind the wheel for his own NASCAR team. Wallace opened up about this during a discussion, offering a glimpse into the mindset that drives both their partnership and 23XI Racing’s success, bringing
“Bubba Wallace on Michael Jordan NASCAR”
to the forefront.
Jordan’s Competitive Spirit Translated into Ownership
When Michael Jordan, known across the world for his relentless desire to win, entered NASCAR as an owner in 2021, he selected Bubba Wallace as the first driver for his new team, 23XI Racing. Jordan’s reputation as an ultra-competitive figure, rivaled perhaps only by sports icons like Kobe Bryant, followed him into the world of motorsports. Yet, as Wallace explained in his recent interview with Katie Nolan, Jordan’s leadership style in the drivers’ paddock differs sharply from his on-court persona.
Wallace described Jordan as noticeably more laid-back now, a quality that few would have associated with him during his basketball heyday. While the NBA Hall of Famer once pushed his own limits to the extreme, as a NASCAR team owner, Jordan brings a more level-headed approach, making measured business decisions and deliberately steering clear of reckless risks.
The Principle That Keeps Jordan Away from the Track
During Wallace’s conversation with Nolan, the topic of Jordan’s personal involvement behind the wheel arose. The 31-year-old driver clarified that his boss has no intention of joining him in a race car. When pressed on why, Wallace shared a lesson imparted by the six-time NBA champion:
“He taught me that if you know you’re gonna go into something and lose, don’t participate.”
—Michael Jordan, Owner
This straightforward philosophy resonated with both Wallace and Nolan, who found the advice surprisingly simple yet powerful. While many recall Jordan’s career for its defiance of limitations and willingness to take on new challenges, the NBA legend acknowledges the difference between calculated risks and unnecessary exposure, especially in the high-speed, unpredictable world of NASCAR.
Contrasts with Jordan’s Athletic Past
Despite adopting this cautious approach to motorsports, Michael Jordan’s athletic legacy is marked by bold moves. His 1993 decision to leave basketball and attempt a career in Major League Baseball was a gamble that, while ultimately short-lived, remains one of sports’ most talked-about transitions. Jordan returned to the NBA a year later, cementing his legend, but his willingness to try, regardless of outcome, is something he remembers with pride. However, NASCAR presents a very different set of dangers and challenges compared to other sports he has tried.
23XI Racing’s Recent Achievements and the Owner’s Influence
Today, Jordan channels his drive for victory through the successes of 23XI Racing, which features drivers like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick. Recently, Jordan notched his ninth NASCAR Cup Series victory as an owner when Wallace triumphed at the Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis, a prestigious win that reinforced their team’s growing reputation.
The triumph also justified Wallace’s $2.2 million earnings from 23XI Racing, linking back to Jordan’s interview remarks that he only rewards winners with top-tier compensation. Now, with Wallace securing an important win, the expectations rise for both the driver and his high-profile boss.
The Broader Impact of Jordan’s NASCAR Role
Michael Jordan’s continued presence in NASCAR brings wider attention and elevated standards to the sport, backed by his unique blend of competitive instinct and business pragmatism. As 23XI Racing celebrates new victories and sets higher goals, fans and competitors alike keep a close eye on how Jordan’s legacy as an owner evolves—shaped by the same wisdom he imparts to his team members, and the boundaries he draws for himself.
