**Michael Jordan Talks About His Support for Bubba Wallace and His Call for More Black American Drivers in NASCAR**
In a candid interview, basketball legend Michael Jordan opened up about his deep admiration for NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace, explaining that their bond goes beyond just the sport. Jordan, a longtime supporter of Wallace, shared why he connects so strongly with the driver, who is one of the few Black Americans in the NASCAR community.
“Growing up as a Black man in America, there were always moments where I saw people who looked like me breaking barriers and making strides,” Jordan explained. “In Bubba, I see someone who not only represents our community but also pushes against the grain in an arena where people like us are few and far between. It’s personal to me.”
Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, knows all too well the importance of representation and the impact it has on young athletes. As a Black man who broke through the boundaries of race in sports, he understands the significance of seeing someone who looks like you excelling in spaces where minorities are often underrepresented.
Bubba Wallace, who made history by becoming the first full-time African American driver in NASCAR’s Cup Series in decades, has been an outspoken advocate for racial equality. He became a symbol of resilience and courage when he took a stand against racial injustice, particularly when he led the charge for the removal of the Confederate flag from NASCAR events. Jordan’s admiration for Wallace comes not only from his ability to compete at the highest level but also for his courage in using his platform to fight for what’s right.
“I’ve always said that sports should be a place where everyone can feel welcome, no matter their race, background, or where they come from,” Jordan continued. “Bubba is not only doing incredible things on the track, but he’s also using his voice to raise awareness of the issues that Black people face. That kind of leadership is inspiring.”
As someone who is deeply involved in the world of sports, Jordan is acutely aware of the challenges that Black athletes face in predominantly white-dominated industries. While Wallace’s success in NASCAR has brought more attention to the need for diversity within the sport, Jordan believes there is still much more work to be done.
“I want to see more Black Americans in racing, more Black drivers, more Black teams,” Jordan said passionately. “It’s not just about having one or two faces at the top; it’s about creating a culture where Black kids look at the sport and say, ‘That’s something I can do too.’ We need to invest in programs, mentorships, and opportunities to make sure the door is wide open for the next generation.”
Jordan has been actively involved in pushing for more representation in sports, particularly in NASCAR. His ownership of the 23XI Racing team, which he co-owns with NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, is a direct result of his commitment to increasing diversity in the sport. With Wallace as one of the team’s drivers, Jordan hopes to create a ripple effect that inspires other Black Americans to pursue careers in motorsport.
“It’s not just about one person,” Jordan explained. “It’s about creating a legacy of change. When young Black kids see Bubba, they can envision themselves behind the wheel. They can see that the sport belongs to them too. That’s what I want to see more of – more Black American drivers, more Black American teams, more opportunities for those who’ve been overlooked.”
Michael Jordan’s support for Bubba Wallace is more than just about sports—it’s about a deeper commitment to uplifting the Black community and creating pathways for future generations to succeed. As Wallace continues to break barriers, Jordan’s call for more Black representation in NASCAR remains a powerful reminder that change is still needed, not just on the racetrack, but across every facet of American sports.
