Bubba Wallace

Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr. is an American professional stock car racing driver competing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. Driving the No. 23 Toyota Camry for 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin, Wallace is recognized as a trailblazer for diversity in NASCAR and a highly competitive racer. As of mid-2025, Wallace has earned multiple career victories and continues to build momentum as a consistent contender.

Early Life and Background

Born on October 8, 1993, in Mobile, Alabama, Bubba Wallace developed an early passion for racing. He progressed through go-karts and dirt late models before advancing through NASCAR’s developmental ranks. Wallace’s breakthrough came with full-time campaigns in the Camping World Truck Series and Xfinity Series before rising to the Cup Series level. He is historically significant as the most prominent Black driver in NASCAR and has been an outspoken advocate for inclusion and equality within motorsports.

Career

Wallace began his full-time NASCAR Cup Series career in 2018 with Richard Petty Motorsports. In 2021, he joined 23XI Racing at its launch, driving the No. 23 Toyota Camry. Wallace made history by winning at Talladega Superspeedway in 2021, becoming the first Black driver to win a Cup Series race since Wendell Scott in 1963.

In 2024, Wallace faced a challenging season but secured 14 top-10 finishes and finished 18th in the points standings. His crew chief was suspended due to a race manipulation penalty, impacting team dynamics.

In July 2025, Wallace made another historic milestone by winning the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, becoming the first Black driver to win on the iconic 2.5-mile oval. This victory marked his third Cup Series win and his first crown jewel race triumph, ending a long winless streak and solidifying his competitiveness.

Wallace currently races under crew chief Charles Denike, who took over in 2025, helping him improve performance and consistency. Through 22 races in 2025, he has achieved 6 top-10 finishes and ranks 9th in the Cup Series standings, marking a career-best trajectory.

Off-Track Ventures

Off the track, Bubba Wallace is a vocal advocate for racial equality, social justice, and diversity within NASCAR. He actively participates in philanthropic efforts promoting youth empowerment and broadening motorsports diversity. Wallace maintains a strong presence on social media, engaging fans and sponsors such as McDonald’s and MoneyLion. He also makes media appearances to extend NASCAR’s reach beyond traditional audiences.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Bubba Wallace’s net worth is estimated between $8 million and $10 million. His income is derived from racing salaries, endorsement deals, sponsorship contracts, and media appearances. His growing success on and off the track contributes to his expanding financial profile.

Personal Life

Wallace is married to Amanda Carter Wallace, and the couple shares a private yet supportive relationship. They welcomed their first child, son Becks Hayden Wallace, on September 29, 2024. Residing in North Carolina.

Recent Controversies

In 2024, Wallace and 23XI Racing faced penalties for race manipulation during a playoff event, including a 50-point deduction and crew chief suspension. Additionally, Wallace was fined $50,000 for a post-race altercation during the Chicago Street Race. These events marked the most significant controversies Wallace has faced recently but have been professionally managed by him and the team.

No other major legal or ethical controversies involving Wallace have been reported through 2025.

Key Highlights from Seasons 2024 and 2025

• 2024: Finished 18th in the Cup points with 14 top-10 finishes. The season included a points penalty related to race manipulation and a crew chief suspension but featured steady competitive results.

• 2025 (to date): Achieved a landmark win at the Brickyard 400, the first by a Black driver on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval. Through 22 races, Wallace holds 6 top-10s, ranks 9th in points, and improved average race metrics under new crew chief Charles Denike.