NASCAR Cup Series playoff drivers shared insights on their strengths and weaknesses as the 10-race postseason began, with 23XI Racing’s Bubba Wallace among those interviewed by NBC Sports. Wallace, noted for his strong mentality, earned a spot in this year’s playoffs after making history with his July 27 victory at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Brickyard 400. His win was especially significant as he became the first Black driver to claim victory at this iconic track, ending a 100-race drought by defeating 2021 Cup Series champion Kyle Larson.
Reflecting on his mental edge, the Alabama native explained:
“I think mentality is my biggest strength. You guys probably wouldn’t give me that trait a couple of years ago. I feel good where I’m at. I feel confident where I’m at.” — Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
“My weakness – I think is the heat of the moment scenarios. I guess it goes with mentality too – how do you react to that. We will go with that,” he added. — Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
Wallace has competed in the Cup Series for eight years and notably became the second driver of color to win a Cup race with his 2021 victory in the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. His team, 23XI Racing, was relatively new at the time. This season, the Huntersville-based organization expanded its lineup by adding a third car driven by Riley Herbst, but Wallace remains the most experienced driver on the team and the only one to advance to the playoffs by securing wins. His teammate Tyler Reddick qualified for the postseason on points.
Bubba Wallace Reflects on Growth Following 2023 Playoff Exit
Wallace’s ambitions for a Cup Series championship were dashed when he was eliminated in the Round of 12, following the concluding race at the Charlotte ROVAL last year. Looking back on that loss, he acknowledged a change in his mindset compared to his state two years earlier. Unlike before, he no longer sought validation from media attention during Playoff Media Day, instead recognizing that he belongs in the postseason:
“I don’t feel like 2023 Playoff Bubba, where like, ‘Oh man, it’s cool to be talking to you guys for Playoff Media Day.’” — Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
Currently, Wallace holds the ninth spot in the championship standings, maintaining a slim two-point margin above the playoff cutoff line. Meanwhile, teammate Tyler Reddick sits just one point below the cutoff, intensifying the competition within 23XI Racing.
Wallace’s Strong Performance at Darlington Raceway Offers Hope for Upcoming Race
The next challenge for Wallace and his fellow drivers is the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. Known as ‘The Lady in Black’ for its distinct egg-shaped design, Darlington has been a favorable track for Wallace in recent years. In his last six starts there, he has achieved four top-10 finishes, including a top-five result earlier this season. The upcoming race on August 31 will mark his 15th start at the historic oval, and his past performances suggest he could continue his strong showing.
This blend of resilience, experience, and mental toughness underscores Wallace’s approach to the playoffs, revealing why his Bubba Wallace mentality playoff strength is a key factor in his ongoing pursuit of success in the NASCAR Cup Series.
