Bubba Wallace’s career in NASCAR’s top series was profoundly influenced by Richard Petty, who provided both opportunity and encouragement throughout many race weekends. In 2018, after Wallace secured an impressive third-place finish in the highly competitive qualifying duel at Daytona International Speedway, Petty personally escorted him to the media area, a gesture that highlighted the deep connection between the two. This moment underscored the emotional support Richard Petty offered as Wallace continued to build his presence in the sport.
Bubba Wallace’s NASCAR journey began in the early 2010s, though his debut in the Cup Series occurred in 2017 when he stepped in for the injured Aric Almirola. When Almirola left Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM), Wallace was promoted to drive full-time in the No. 43 car. The qualifying duel at Daytona marked a turning point as Wallace surged forward, gaining ten positions to finish third, signaling his rising status within the series.
Petty’s enthusiasm was visible and contagious. Reflecting on that night, Wallace shared,
“I had a bodyguard walk me from the car to here; his name was Richard Petty. I have never seen him that excited before. That was the coolest thing… Sunglasses were off. Got to see how much he was truly excited about that. That is probably the highlight of the night, better than finishing third… Felt like we just won the race, as proud as he was.”
—Bubba Wallace, Driver
That weekend was especially fruitful for Wallace, who also earned a second-place finish in his Daytona 500 debut, a feat he later matched in 2022.
The Close Relationship and Racing Philosophy Shared by Wallace and Petty
Spanning over three years, Bubba Wallace’s tenure with Richard Petty’s team forged a strong personal and professional relationship between the young driver and the 88-year-old legend. This bond remained intact until Wallace moved to 23XI Racing in 2021.
Wallace has often highlighted Petty’s unique approach to racing, emphasizing the sense of escape the sport provides. In a 2020 interview with the Wall Street Journal, Wallace recalled his team owner’s perspective:
“It’s like Richard Petty always said, ‘Racing isn’t the job. That’s where we get away from our job.’ That’s where we go out and have fun and get away from the madness. No one can bother you in there. There’s no phones, no interviews — it’s just you, driving.”
—Bubba Wallace, Driver
Following RPM’s shutdown in 2021, Wallace has continued to establish himself as a formidable competitor. Having claimed three victories so far, including a significant win at the Brickyard 400 earlier this year, he is projected to participate in the 2025 NASCAR postseason, demonstrating his ongoing rise in the sport.
Looking Ahead: Wallace’s Growing Influence in NASCAR
Bubba Wallace’s story reflects more than just his driving results; it reveals the mentorship and respect shared between generations within NASCAR. Richard Petty’s emotional backing has been a foundation for Wallace’s development, instilling confidence that has helped him seize pivotal moments on the track. As Wallace continues to build his career with 23XI Racing and beyond, his trajectory suggests further successes.
With his past performances at Daytona and recent triumphs such as the Brickyard 400 victory, Wallace is positioned as a leading figure in the series. The experience gained from racing with a legend like Petty, coupled with Wallace’s own talent and determination, suggests that NASCAR fans can expect continued passion and competitiveness from him in the seasons ahead.
