Bubba Wallace is now featured in NASCAR 25, the first NASCAR console game developed by iRacing, set to launch on October 14. His spotter, Freddie Kraft, added a humorous twist by declaring on social media that Wallace would be the first driver he “right hooks” in the game, despite Kraft’s real-life desire to keep Wallace safe on the track.
This playful jab came in response to a fan question asking which driver Kraft would target for a right rear hook in NASCAR 25. While many popular answers named aggressive drivers like Carson Hocevar, Austin Hill, and Joey Logano—known for their intense track rivalries—Kraft singled out Wallace in good fun, adding levity to an otherwise competitive season.
Wallace’s Strong Season and Playoff Position
Bubba Wallace has had a notable 2023 season, highlighted by his first win of the year at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which secured his spot in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. His recent performance remains strong, as demonstrated by a sixth-place finish at Iowa Speedway on Sunday, marking his third straight top-10 result and moving him up to 10th in the overall points standings.
At Iowa, Wallace faced a serious challenge when a damaged toe link briefly set him back two laps, dropping him to 32nd place. Despite this setback, he managed an impressive comeback, working his way back onto the lead lap and eventually finishing sixth, proving his resilience on the track.
Reflecting on the race, Wallace said,
I was just relaxed the whole time, really,
followed by,
And it’s interesting how things shake out. We had a up-and-down day, as you mentioned. Was ready to just debrief the whole car mid-race and just figure out what we need to do to wholesale it. Had our damage, had our issues and just really fought hard to get our All True Camry back in the top 10.
—Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
The Importance of Playoff Momentum for Wallace
Wallace currently holds the No. 9 seed in the 16-driver playoff field with seven playoff points, positioning him well as the postseason approaches. His recent consistency and ability to overcome mechanical issues reflect a determined mindset, essential for competing amid the fierce competition of the NASCAR playoffs.
Spotter Freddie Kraft’s playful teasing in the NASCAR 25 game adds an entertaining element to the buildup, echoing the real-world intensity and rivalries Wallace experiences each race weekend. As the playoffs near, Wallace’s performance in both real and virtual racing continues to capture fans’ attention.
