NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin has expressed astonishment at Bubba Wallace’s significant growth as a driver during the 2025 season. As the No. 23 Toyota Camry driver continues to shine, Wallace is experiencing what many call his Bubba Wallace NASCAR breakthrough, marked by increasing wins and consistent strong performances.
This summer, Wallace claimed victory at the Brickyard 400, adding to his career achievements and reaching new personal milestones. He has led a career-high 368 laps and has secured a spot in the Cup Series playoffs for the second time. Hamlin, who co-owns the 23XI Racing team with Wallace, shared his thoughts about Wallace’s rise on his Actions Detrimental podcast.
Hamlin Expresses Amazement at Wallace’s Transformation
Denny Hamlin conveyed his disbelief at the progress Wallace has made over recent seasons.
Bubba’s turnaround over the last few years has just been — I can’t believe it, truthfully,
Hamlin said. He emphasized the maturity Wallace has developed and how the No. 23 car has consistently been the fastest on their team throughout the year. Hamlin noted,
The maturity he has shown — he’s been the lead car at 23XI really the entire year. I think the 45 [Tyler Reddick] might have him on average finish because he doesn’t have as many DNFs, but the 23 has been the fastest freakin’ car we’ve got, and that’s something that just, I can’t believe it.
The co-owner credited both the new crew chief Charles Denike’s setups and Wallace’s mindset for this turnaround.
Whether it’s [new crew chief] Charles Denike and his setups or Bubba’s mentality, something changed over there that has made Bubba someone you’re going to have to contend with every single week. And you’re gonna have to contend with him this weekend, by the way,
Hamlin added. He also remarked on the significant improvement in Wallace’s road-course driving, praising the 23XI team’s week-to-week dedication.
If you haven’t seen his road-course skills, they’ve dramatically improved. I couldn’t be more proud of that 23 team and what they’re doing week in, week out.
Strong Performance at Kansas Speedway Highlights Consistency
Wallace recently secured a top-five finish in the Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway, further demonstrating his competitive edge this season. During the race, both Hamlin and Wallace were contenders for the win in a fiercely contested closing stretch, showcasing their intense rivalry and skill.
Reflecting on the race, Hamlin admitted his disappointment in not winning but highlighted the excitement the battle provided fans.
I thought we had an incredible finish. I hate that we didn’t win, and then my second hate is that the No. 23 car didn’t win,
he shared.
But man, it was an exciting freaking race, and that was two competitors going for it. Bubba knew it meant a lot to him. I knew it meant a lot to me.
Hamlin conveyed his commitment to fair racing and respect for Wallace as a competitor.
I tried to make the move I made to win. I raced hard. I never, ever want to be accused of racing with bias. This should certainly silence that. But I mean, we had a great finish — something I hope the fans can be happy about.
Following the intense race, Wallace acknowledged his team’s efforts and made a lighthearted comment about Hamlin, his co-owner and teammate, reflecting their strong working relationship.
Implications of Wallace’s Rising Trajectory in NASCAR
Bubba Wallace’s breakthrough performance this season underlines a turning point in his NASCAR career,confirming him as a steadfast contender within the Cup Series. His continued presence in the playoffs and ability to challenge seasoned drivers like Hamlin and Tyler Reddick signify a new era for the 23XI team.
Hamlin’s praise highlights not only Wallace’s growing skill set but also the effective collaboration within their team, especially involving new leadership like Charles Denike. Their success could inspire further strategic improvements and consistent high-level competition moving forward.
As the season progresses, Wallace’s ongoing momentum will likely influence race outcomes and intensify rivalries, keeping fans closely engaged with the unfolding Cup Series battles.
