Bubba Wallace firmly dismissed comparisons between World Wide Technology Raceway (WWT Raceway) and Darlington Raceway in a recent video shared on X, emphasizing that Darlington’s unique features distinguish it from WWT Raceway. The NASCAR Cup Series driver reacted to claims that the two tracks are similar, calling such comparisons inappropriate due to the distinct challenges each venue presents.
The video, posted by Frontstretch, shows Wallace acknowledging an initial resemblance when viewing the tracks from above. He said,
“Track shape is similar for sure, um. I think Tyler actually made a note of that in our meeting this week. And it’s funny, if you look at overhead view, it looks exactly the same. But yeah, Darlington is its own racetrack. I think it’s kind of offensive that you even put the two together.” —Bubba Wallace
Though the Madison, Illinois oval may share a roughly egg-shaped layout with Darlington, Wallace highlights major differences in design and driving experience. WWT Raceway spans 1.25 miles and features asymmetrical turns where Turns 1 and 2 are tighter than Turns 3 and 4, forcing drivers and teams to constantly adjust their approach. Despite drawing inspiration from Darlington and Twin Ring Motegi, WWT Raceway demands its own unique strategies.
Besides the oval, WWT Raceway is a multi-use complex with facilities like a drag strip, karting center, and road course. It accommodates up to 58,000 spectators and hosts diverse events from NASCAR Cup Series races to INDYCAR and NHRA competitions. Drivers often describe WWT Raceway as a relatively flat track more comparable to venues such as Phoenix and New Hampshire than to Darlington.
By contrast, Darlington Raceway has been a cornerstone of NASCAR in South Carolina since 1950. As one of the first paved superspeedways over a mile long, it features a 1.366-mile egg-shaped layout created to avoid a nearby pond. The track’s steep banking, abrasive surface, and notorious tire wear have earned it a reputation as one of the toughest circuits, symbolized by the infamous “Darlington Stripe” that results from close wall contact. These defining characteristics set Darlington apart from WWT Raceway despite any aerial similarities.
Bubba Wallace Expresses Interest in Collaborating with Lewis Hamilton Beyond Racing
Bubba Wallace recently revealed his admiration for Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton extends beyond respect, expressing a desire to partner with him in business ventures. In an interview with Front Office Sports, the 31-year-old driver said that if he had the opportunity to collaborate with any racer, Hamilton would be his top choice.
Both drivers have broken significant racial barriers in their respective sports, with Hamilton becoming the first Black Formula 1 driver in 2007, and Wallace standing as NASCAR’s first full-time Black Cup Series driver since Wendell Scott in the 1970s. Wallace openly shared his enthusiasm when asked to name a potential partner, stating,
“Let’s go Lewis Hamilton. Whatever his idea, I would just want a little part of it, a little piece of it, just say I am in with Lewis Hamilton.” —Bubba Wallace
Hamilton’s diverse business interests include co-owning the NFL’s Denver Broncos, founding Neat Burger, and launching the +44 fashion label and Almave non-alcoholic tequila brand. He also co-founded TRMW Sports with Tiger Woods, manages Dawn Apollo Films, and leads Mission 44, a foundation that supports underrepresented youth through educational opportunities. This wide-ranging portfolio makes Hamilton a compelling figure for Wallace to align with beyond their racing careers.
