MADISON, Ill. — Bubba Wallace enters the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway eager to change his past fortunes, as his best finish there is 21st in three attempts, with an average finish of 25.7, the lowest among active ovals. The Bubba Wallace Gateway NASCAR challenge is crucial as he seeks to build momentum during the playoffs.
Strong Playoff Start Boosts Confidence
Wallace gained confidence following a solid sixth-place finish in the playoff opener at Darlington Raceway, where he secured the fourth-most points in one of NASCAR’s toughest races. This performance widened his cushion to 25 points above the elimination line, providing some breathing room ahead of the next two races at Gateway and Bristol Motor Speedway.
Recent Performances Indicate Potential at Similar Tracks
The No. 23 team has demonstrated competitiveness on tracks similar to Gateway during the 2025 season. Wallace recently led a career-best 123 laps at Richmond Raceway and came from the back to finish sixth at Iowa Speedway. The Goodyear Racing tires used successfully at Iowa will also be employed at Gateway this weekend.
“Hopefully, that breeds some success from Iowa,”
Wallace said about applying the same tire setup.
“Every track is unique, and every track is different. You can go back to Iowa and not have the same result that we did — that’s just how much things evolve and change.”
Adapting the Car to Gateway’s Unique Demands
Wallace acknowledges the need to adjust and optimize the car setup for Gateway’s unique challenges. While the track is one of the more uncertain on the schedule, he remains optimistic about identifying solutions with his team.
“We just have to lock in, figure out what our car needs. This is probably the one out of the 10 that are circled that’s like, eh, need to figure out something here. Not in a bad way. I’m excited for the challenge and excited to figure it out. I think we’re in a good spot. It’s different looking at points now versus being on the bubble looking at points. I’m OK, plus 25. I’ll take it.”
Building on a Strong Summer Run
Since late July at Dover Motor Speedway, Wallace’s No. 23 team has been surging with five top-10 finishes in seven races, including the biggest win of Wallace’s career at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This upward trend is driving the team’s optimistic approach as they head into Gateway.
Wallace and Crew Chief Focused on New Mindset
Rookie Cup Series crew chief Charles Denike has led this renewed approach, with Wallace embracing the challenge of improving at Gateway by adapting and staying comfortable in unfamiliar conditions.
“My philosophy and mindset coming into this place is not vibing,”
Wallace shared.
“Looking forward to doing something new and chasing a feel that’s different and being comfortable being uncomfortable. I feel like we have a good hold on our short-track stuff, so I don’t think it will be any different.”
Team Co-Owner Confident Despite Past Results
Despite Wallace’s struggles at Gateway, 23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin remains confident in the team’s ability to perform well. Hamlin points to upcoming tracks where the No. 23 team has shown speed and consistency.
“I think that they feel pretty good,”
Hamlin said.
“They have some good tracks these next couple of weeks and have the speed to do it. As long as they focus on the execution of the race, I think they will be fine.”
Looking Ahead: The Importance of Gateway and Bristol
The Bubba Wallace Gateway NASCAR challenge represents a key opportunity to maintain momentum in the Round of 16. A solid performance at Gateway would set up the team well for Bristol Motor Speedway, where Wallace has recorded two top-15 finishes in the last four races, strengthening his playoff position and increasing the likelihood of advancing to later rounds.
