In the aftermath of a tense restart incident at Kansas Speedway, NASCAR Cup Series driver Bubba Wallace and his 23XI Racing team owner, Denny Hamlin, have addressed their differences. The conversation came almost a week after the race, aiming to clarify emotions and intentions behind their on-track clash, a significant moment for both men as they navigate competitive and team dynamics.
Wallace admitted the week following the event had been difficult. The two had not communicated until a face-to-face meeting the Saturday morning before Wallace’s media session at Charlotte Roval, signaling a needed step toward reconciliation.
Heartfelt Discussion Brings Mutual Understanding
Wallace described the dialogue as an honest and peaceful exchange.
“I hate that it got to this point and the lingering effect,”
he told reporters.
“Denny and I just talked until about 30 minutes ago (Saturday morning). It was a good heart-to-heart conversation and came from a place of peace.”
He went on to say their talk exceeded his expectations:
“He shared his side of things, and I shared mine and we had a common ground.”
Wallace also shared a lighter moment during the conversation.
“It was kind of funny when I sent him on a detour when I said, ‘You can go first.’ He started talking, and five seconds in I said, ‘Just so you know, I’m not mad about getting fenced going for the win.’ His eyes got all wide.”
Wallace Stands Firm, Yet Forgives Hamlin’s Move
Known for his tenacity, Wallace has never shied away from aggressive racing, including a past post-race confrontation with Kyle Larson after a collision at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Currently sitting 10th in the Playoff points, 26 behind the cutoff for the Round of 8, Wallace remains competitive and ready to fight.
Despite the recent incident, Wallace does not blame Hamlin for his race tactics. Understanding that Hamlin was fully committed to winning, Wallace acknowledged the realities of racing on the edge.
He emphasized this point clearly:
“Just so we are all clear on that – that is not going to be the last time where I’m battling for a win and it doesn’t go our way in some fashion, whether that is Denny or anybody in the field.”
Wallace further reflected on how different perspectives influence the incident.
“But, I’ll be a little gracious here and say 95% of the people on this (in)side of the catch fence look at that move as ‘ooof’ (uncomfortable grimace).”
He concluded,
“The other five percent, whether they’re buddies or they don’t care, they see the other side of it. I don’t fault Denny Hamlin racing for the win, for his team and his sponsors.”
Racing as Both Teammates and Rivals
Hamlin and his 23XI Racing teammate Tyler Reddick operate in a rare dual role, competing not only as racing adversaries but also as teammates with shared team interests.
Wallace commented on this dynamic:
“I get asked all the time what it’s like to race Denny on the race track.”
He candidly added,
“No offense to them, but I could give two sh*ts because he’s a competitor and he’s labeled it that way. That was two competitors going for a win, and so as much so as it didn’t work out, I have to respect that.”
Disappointment Looms Over Toyota’s Missed Victory
The final restart at Kansas Speedway featured five Toyota drivers in the top five positions, yet the triumph went to Chevrolet’s Chase Elliott. This outcome was a bitter pill for Wallace, who felt responsible for his manufacturer and team.
“My biggest thing was Toyota didn’t win,”
Wallace admitted.
“Before I left my motorhome after the race, I texted the Toyota reps apologizing that we didn’t win. It was all of the people that got effected – that is where my frustration came from, because I felt like I was stepping up for them.”
Though the conversation with Hamlin eased tensions, Wallace admitted lingering disappointment remains.
“So, while the conversation went really well (with Hamlin), the pain is still there a little bit, but it definitely eased it. I definitely appreciate Denny’s comments, never want him to back down in any scenario, but I didn’t get the chance to see the rest of the corner.”
So yeah, that sucks.
Implications for Future Competition
This candid exchange marks a pivotal moment for Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace, revealing their commitment to professionalism despite high-stakes rivalry. It underscores the complex balance between team loyalty and individual ambition on the NASCAR circuit.
As the Playoffs progress, Wallace remains intent on pushing through challenging points standings, while maintaining mutual respect with his owner and on-track competitor Hamlin. Their willingness to communicate after the Kansas incident could set a tone of openness and resilience within 23XI Racing as future races unfold.
