Bubba Wallace is prioritizing his family over racing in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, making it clear he will not miss the birth of his second child for any event. After missing the birth of his son Becks due to a race, Wallace is determined to be present this time for his wife Amanda and their growing family, highlighting his new stance on Bubba Wallace family priorities as the season progresses.
Wallace’s Stand: Family Over Race Commitments
In 2024, Wallace was absent for the arrival of his first child Becks, a decision heavily influenced by both his career obligations and his wife Amanda’s wishes at the time. Now, with Amanda expecting to deliver their second child in March, Wallace has been candid about his plans. As the Daytona 500 approaches and with countless fans and supporters anticipating his performance, Wallace’s priorities have shifted significantly. He has publicly stated that if the timing of his next child’s birth coincides with a scheduled race, 23XI Racing will need to name a substitute driver for the No. 23 Toyota, even if it means missing a major event.
“We’ve made the decision. I unfortunately missed the birth of my first kid, I’m not missing the second one,”
Wallace told Jeff Gluck and Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic.
“It was actually Amanda’s call on the first one. She was like, ‘Winning is so important. I don’t see a scenario where you’re not missing him, unless he came on like a Wednesday,’ but Becks is an asshole and came on Sunday at two o’clock. But that was her call.”
– Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
Lessons Learned and a Firm Resolve
Reflecting on what he missed during Becks’ birth, Wallace has made it clear this is not an experience he will repeat. He describes encountering surprise from others when they learn he wasn’t present at the hospital and emphasizes how much it weighs on him emotionally. Speaking to his conviction, Wallace shared the importance of moments with his children over the chance to compete on the track.
“It’s fine. I lost the race that day. It’s okay. I can get another race next week. I don’t get another kid. I will be missing a race if it comes down to that, and that’s it, final.”
– Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
This position finds support within the team and around the NASCAR paddock, as Wallace’s co-owner Denny Hamlin missed a race last season for the birth of his own child. Despite missing a race, Hamlin came close to winning the 2025 Cup Series title, proving top drivers can still maintain championship aspirations while honoring family milestones.
Impact on the Racing Season and the Team
Wallace’s approach sets a meaningful example for fellow competitors, fans, and his crew at 23XI Racing. NASCAR culture often places immense value on unwavering commitment, but as Wallace’s story and Hamlin’s recent experience reveal, taking time for family is both respected and sustainable within the sport. The hope among his supporters is for the schedule to align so Wallace can attend both the birth and any races planned for that crucial weekend. Nevertheless, his statements leave no doubt—if the events overlap, his family will come first.
Bubba Wallace Engages with Pop Culture Leading Into Daytona
As the excitement for the Daytona 500 builds, Wallace took time to enjoy the cultural moments surrounding the Super Bowl, joining millions of Americans in watching Bad Bunny’s energetic halftime show. Wallace expressed his appreciation for the music superstar and the moment’s cultural significance in real-time online commentary.
“What a proud moment it must be for the Puerto Rican community!!”
– Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
The performance included surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, giving the show extra star power and engaging viewers across the globe. Wallace’s attention now returns to the start of the NASCAR Cup Series season as he aims to carry both inspiration and competitive edge into the Daytona 500.
Looking Ahead: Season Opens Amid Personal Milestones
With the new NASCAR Cup Series season beginning at Daytona, Wallace’s decision marks a pivotal moment both personally and professionally. Supported by fellow drivers, his team co-owner Denny Hamlin, and fans, Wallace’s resolve emphasizes a shift in priorities—one that affirms the value of family even in the pressure-filled world of professional racing. As fans wait to see if Wallace can both welcome his new child and participate at Daytona, his determination to embrace his familial responsibilities stands as a powerful statement within the sport.
"I'm not missing the second one"
Bubba's decision is clear: If it's race day, Bubba will still be there to witness the birth of his second child. pic.twitter.com/OgC22sEfNS
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) February 13, 2026
What a proud moment it must be for the Puerto Rican community!! I enjoyed that!
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) February 9, 2026
