We Are Going to Miss You, Legend: Bubba Wallace, Six-Time Winner and 23XI Racing Star, Announces Departure Amidst Team Misunderstanding
In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community, Bubba Wallace, one of the sport’s brightest stars, has announced he will be parting ways with 23XI Racing at the end of the 2025 season. The announcement marks the end of a memorable chapter in his career and the team’s history, one that saw Wallace not only secure six race victories but also become a prominent figure in motorsport for his advocacy and unique personality.
Wallace, who joined 23XI Racing in 2020, made history as the first African American driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in over 50 years when he took the checkered flag at Talladega Superspeedway in 2021. His move to 23XI Racing, a team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR star Denny Hamlin, was heralded as a landmark moment in the sport’s efforts to diversify and bring in new fans. But as 2025 came to a close, Wallace revealed a different side to his journey — one marked by increasing tension and misunderstanding with his team, ultimately leading to his decision to move on.
In an emotional statement released via social media, Wallace expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had with 23XI but revealed that despite his success and contributions to the team, there were growing frustrations on both sides. “I’ll always be grateful to Michael, Denny, and the entire 23XI Racing crew for the chance to compete at the highest level and to have accomplished what we have. But sometimes, despite the best intentions, things just don’t click. I’ve reached a point where it’s clear that both the team and I are heading in different directions,” Wallace said in the post.
The departure comes amid what sources describe as a breakdown in communication and vision within the team. Several insiders suggest that Wallace’s competitive nature, combined with the evolving dynamics of the team, led to growing frustration between the driver and management. Wallace, known for his outspoken personality and commitment to pushing boundaries, reportedly felt that his role in the team was not being fully utilized, especially as the sport continues to evolve.
While his racing results continued to be strong — including six race wins over the course of his career with 23XI — Wallace’s departure is a reminder of the complexities of relationships in high-stakes environments like NASCAR. The team’s increasing reliance on new technology and strategies, as well as shifting sponsorship deals, has created an atmosphere where even the most successful drivers struggle to find harmony with their teams.
For 23XI Racing, Wallace’s exit is a huge loss. His victory at Talladega was a defining moment for the team and served as a launching pad for greater recognition. Additionally, Wallace’s involvement in important social justice initiatives helped elevate the team’s profile beyond racing, creating an impactful narrative that resonated with fans and the wider public.
As for Wallace, the future remains uncertain, but his announcement has already sparked rumors of potential offers from other teams. With his talent and unique position in the sport, it seems likely that other organizations will be eager to bring him on board. NASCAR, in particular, will surely miss the trailblazing force that Wallace has become, as he continues to inspire a new generation of fans.
In closing, while fans and teammates alike will undoubtedly miss Bubba Wallace’s presence on the track, there is hope that his journey in the sport is far from over. His legacy as one of NASCAR’s most influential drivers is firmly intact, and the next chapter in his career promises to be just as exciting. For now, though, we bid farewell to a true legend who made an indelible mark on the sport.
