Bubba Wallace is aiming for a strong comeback at the Charlotte Roval this weekend after a challenging incident at Kansas last week. Central to this preparation is addressing the fallout from a significant collision with Denny Hamlin, which stirred much controversy during the Hollywood Casino 400.
Wallace and Hamlin, who co-own 23XI Racing alongside NBA legend Michael Jordan and race for rival teams, were at the center of the conflict that occurred when Hamlin intentionally collided with Wallace on the track. The event disrupted Wallace’s chances of advancing in the playoffs and damaged their working relationship.
Details of the Post-Race Tension and Subsequent Discussion
During the Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway, a heated moment struck between the 23XI Racing driver and the Joe Gibbs Racing veteran as Hamlin pursued his 60th Cup Series victory. Wallace was also competing for a crucial win that would have guaranteed his progression to the third playoff round and ensured 23XI Racing’s representation in the championship fight.
Following the race, the two exchanged angry words on pit road but did not engage in a meaningful dialogue until the Saturday event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Before the Charlotte Roval race, Wallace opened up about the conversation he had with Hamlin, describing it as unexpectedly positive and heartfelt.
It’s definitely a somber week for sure. I hate that it got to this point,
Wallace shared ahead of the Charlotte Roval weekend.
The lingering effect, but Denny and I just talked 30 minutes ago. And it was a good heart-to-heart conversation. Came from a place of peace. Went better than I thought it would. He shared his side of things, and I shared mine, and we had common ground,
he added.
I told him, and it was kind of funny because I kind of sent him on a detour when I said, because I said, you can go first,
Wallace said.
Then he started talking, and five seconds in, I said, ‘Just so you know, I’m not mad about getting fenced, going for the win.’ And his eyes were like, oh, well, I need a second to reposition where I’m going to go,
the Brickyard 400 winner recalled.
Impact of the Incident and Differing Perspectives Among Fans and Competitors
Despite their recent conversation, Wallace acknowledged that many fans and fellow drivers continue to view Hamlin’s action as inappropriate. The crash significantly set back Wallace’s playoff aspirations, forcing him to recover from a 26-point deficit to stay competitive.
95% of people on this side of the catchfence, look at that move as ‘Oof,’ right? ‘Oof!’ That’s it. While the other 5%, whether they’re buddies or whatever, they don’t care. They see the other side of,
Wallace noted.
In contrast, Hamlin arrives at the Charlotte Roval with a solid playoff position, sitting 48 points above the elimination threshold. His strong standing gives him a buffer going into the Round of 12, barring any catastrophic outcome in Sunday’s race.
What Lies Ahead for Both Drivers After Their Reconciliation
The recent dialogue between Wallace and Hamlin signals an important step toward easing tensions within their shared team ownership and the competitive racing environment. Wallace’s efforts to reconcile reflect the weight of the incident on both the personal and professional levels as they focus on the critical Charlotte Roval matchup.
How this conversation influences their future interactions and race performances remains to be seen, but the willingness to communicate openly may prove essential for 23XI Racing’s success moving forward in the playoffs. Fans and competitors alike will watch closely as both drivers navigate the remaining challenges of the season.
Bubba Wallace shared that he and Denny Hamlin cleared the air over the finish at Kansas earlier today. Said the conversation went well even if "the pain is still there a little bit"
Wallace let on that he had an issue with Hamlin's "I won't apologize" line the day after, and… pic.twitter.com/FLquMJUDIv
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) October 4, 2025
