After securing back-to-back third-place finishes in the Cup Series, Bubba Wallace has faced difficulties maintaining his position among the top five in recent races. Between the Goodyear 400 and the NASCAR All-Star Race, Wallace’s highest placement has been eighth, achieved twice. This continued struggle has raised concerns for 23XI Racing, with veteran driver Kevin Harvick emphasizing the growing pressure on Wallace to deliver better results.
In the NASCAR All-Star Open race, Wallace put in his best effort but could not secure a transfer spot to the million-dollar main event, finishing eighth and missing the qualification. His final chance to enter the All-Star Race was through the fan vote, but unfortunately, he did not receive enough support to advance.
Kevin Harvick Addresses the Reality of Wallace’s Performance at North Wilkesboro
The NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro was highly anticipated, featuring top drivers competing for a lucrative prize. Despite his enthusiasm, Wallace found himself relegated to the sidelines after failing to qualify for the main race. On the “Happy Hour” podcast, Kevin Harvick discussed the immense pressure Wallace is enduring from both within the team and the broader NASCAR community.
Look at ‘The Favorite’ Bubba Wallace’s team. I mean, they kinda, laid an egg, right? The pressure is real!
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR driver
Adding to the disappointment, Wallace was outperformed by two less experienced drivers, despite piloting a car co-owned by notable figures Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, equipped with JGR technology. John Hunter Nemechek secured his spot in the All-Star Race through his performance in the Open race, while Noah Gragson earned his entry via the fan vote.
The Growing Uncertainty Surrounding 23XI Racing’s Future Choices
Harvick’s comments come shortly after he voiced concerns about Corey Heim’s limited role within 23XI Racing. Heim, who holds the lead in the Truck Series championship, drives part-time for 23XI in the Cup Series but competes full-time in the Truck Series. Harvick questions why Heim remains in the lower tier of NASCAR despite his evident talent.
The former driver believes that Heim should be given a more prominent position within the organization, warning that failing to do so may result in the team losing one of its most promising talents. With Wallace’s recent struggles, 23XI Racing may soon face difficult decisions about balancing the roster and team priorities to regain competitive momentum.
