History of Bubba Wallace in Timeline
William Darrell "Bubba" Wallace Jr. is an American professional stock car racing driver. He competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, where he drives the No. 23 Toyota Camry XSE for the team 23XI Racing. Wallace is known for his skills on the track and has become a notable figure in the racing community.
December 1, 1963: Wendell Scott's Historic NASCAR Victory
On December 1, 1963, Wendell Scott made history as the first African American driver to win a race in NASCAR's premier series, then known as the Grand National Division.
1971: Wendell Scott's Legacy as a NASCAR Pioneer
Wendell Scott's legacy as a NASCAR pioneer continues to inspire generations of drivers. His perseverance and determination paved the way for greater diversity and inclusion within the sport.
1987: Bubba Wallace's Historic Win at Greenville-Pickens Speedway
In a groundbreaking victory in 2010, Bubba Wallace became the youngest driver to win at Greenville-Pickens Speedway, a track with a rich history dating back to its beginnings as the Busch North Series in 1987.
October 8, 1993: Birth of Bubba Wallace
Bubba Wallace was born on October 8, 1993.
2005: Bubba Wallace's Breakout Year in Bandolero Series
In 2005, at just nine years old, Bubba Wallace won an impressive 35 out of 48 races in the Bandolero Series.
2006: Bill Lester's Cup Series Participation
Bill Lester's participation in the NASCAR Cup Series marked a significant moment in the sport's history.
2008: Youngest Winner at Franklin County Speedway
At the young age of 15, Bubba Wallace made history in 2008 by becoming the youngest driver ever to win at Franklin County Speedway in Virginia.
2010: Bubba Wallace's NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Debut
Bubba Wallace began his journey in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2010, joining Rev Racing as part of NASCAR's Drive for Diversity program. He also signed as a development driver for Joe Gibbs Racing.
2011: Bubba Wallace's Success and Rookie of the Year Title
Bubba Wallace continued his success in 2011, securing three wins at Richmond International Raceway, Columbus Motor Speedway, and Dover International Speedway. This impressive performance earned him second place in points, narrowly trailing Max Gresham. He also etched his name in history as the first African American to win the Rookie of the Year award in a NASCAR series.
2011: Bubba Wallace and Ron Hornaday Jr. Incident
In April 2013, at Rockingham Speedway, Bubba Wallace found himself in a heated incident with veteran driver Ron Hornaday Jr. During a caution flag, Wallace made contact with Hornaday, resulting in retaliation from Hornaday that sent Wallace's truck into the wall. The incident drew comparisons to a previous altercation between Kyle Busch and Hornaday at Texas Motor Speedway in 2011.
2012: Bubba Wallace Joins Joe Gibbs Racing
Bubba Wallace's career reached new heights in 2012 when he joined Joe Gibbs Racing, competing in the K&N East Series and selected Nationwide Series races. He continued his winning streak, securing a victory at Greenville-Pickens Speedway, marking his first win with JGR.
February 2013: Bubba Wallace's Camping World Truck Series Debut
Bubba Wallace embarked on a new chapter in his career in February 2013, joining the Camping World Truck Series. He competed in the No. 54 Toyota for Kyle Busch Motorsports, marking his entry into one of NASCAR's national series.
October 26, 2013: Bubba Wallace Makes History at Martinsville Speedway
On October 26, 2013, Bubba Wallace etched his name in NASCAR history books by becoming the first African American driver to win in a national series since Wendell Scott's victory in the Grand National Division on December 1, 1963. Wallace's triumph came at Martinsville Speedway, where he dominated the Kroger 200 in the Camping World Truck Series.
December 8, 2014: Bubba Wallace Parts Ways with Joe Gibbs Racing
Despite initial expectations of moving up to the Xfinity Series with Joe Gibbs Racing, Bubba Wallace made the decision to depart from the team on December 8, 2014, seeking new opportunities after sponsorship challenges arose.
December 18, 2014: Bubba Wallace Joins Roush Fenway Racing
Bubba Wallace's career took a new turn on December 18, 2014, as he signed with Roush Fenway Racing to compete in the Xfinity Series for the 2015 season.
2014: Bubba Wallace's Dominant Truck Series Season
Bubba Wallace's 2014 season in the Camping World Truck Series was marked by a string of impressive performances, including victories at Gateway Motorsports Park, Eldora Speedway (where he held off Kyle Larson and Ron Hornaday Jr.), and a second consecutive win at Martinsville Speedway in a tribute to Wendell Scott. He capped off the season with his first non-short track victory at Homestead Miami Speedway, ultimately finishing third in the point standings.
2014: Bubba Wallace's Limited Nationwide Series Appearances
Bubba Wallace made two appearances in the Nationwide Series for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2014. His first race, at Talladega Superspeedway in May, ended prematurely due to involvement in "The Big One." However, he showcased his talent in July at Daytona, finishing a commendable seventh while sporting Coca-Cola's "Share a Coke" campaign livery.
January 28, 2015: Bubba Wallace's Xfinity Series Debut
Bubba Wallace's highly anticipated Xfinity Series debut took place on January 28, 2015, at NASCAR Media Day. It was announced that he would be driving the No. 6 Ford EcoBoost Mustang. His season started strong with a 12th-place finish at Daytona and continued with an impressive 14 top-ten finishes, ultimately securing him seventh place in the final point standings.
2015: NASCAR Requests Fans to Stop Displaying Confederate Flag
In 2015, after the Charleston church shooting, NASCAR requested fans to refrain from displaying the Confederate flag at its races, marking an initial step towards addressing its controversial presence.
June 5, 2017: Bubba Wallace's Cup Series Debut
On June 5, 2017, Bubba Wallace made history as the first African American driver to compete in the Cup Series since Bill Lester in 2006. Filling in for the injured Aric Almirola at Richard Petty Motorsports, Wallace piloted the No. 43 Ford in the Pocono 400. Despite facing challenges, including speeding penalties, he finished 26th in his Cup debut.
October 25, 2017: Bubba Wallace Joins Richard Petty Motorsports
Bubba Wallace's career reached a significant milestone on October 25, 2017, when he officially joined Richard Petty Motorsports as the full-time driver of the No. 43 car. This move made him the first African American driver to secure a full-time ride in the Cup Series since Wendell Scott in 1971.
2017: Wallace Voices Character in 'Cars 3'
Bubba Wallace lent his voice to the character Bubba Wheelhouse in the 2017 Pixar film 'Cars 3', expanding his reach beyond the racetrack and into the world of entertainment.
October 2018: Bubba Wallace Named to Ebony's Power 100 List
In recognition of his achievements and influence, Bubba Wallace was named to Ebony magazine's prestigious Power 100 list in October 2018. This accolade placed him alongside prominent figures like Stephen Curry, Antonio Brown, Venus Williams, and former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.
2018: Wallace's Second-Place Finish at the 2018 Daytona 500
Bubba Wallace matched his career-best Cup Series result in the 2018 Daytona 500 when he secured a second-place finish.
2018: Bubba Wallace Set to Drive for Richard Petty Motorsports
Following Aric Almirola's departure from Richard Petty Motorsports, team owner Richard Petty revealed plans to bring Bubba Wallace on board as the new driver of the No. 43 car for the 2018 season.
2018: Bubba Wallace Returns to K&N East
In 2018, Bubba Wallace returned to his roots, competing in the K&N East Series at Watkins Glen. Driving the No. 27 Chevrolet for Jefferson Pitts Racing, he aimed to gain valuable experience on the road course in preparation for upcoming Cup Series races.
2018: Wallace Stars in Facebook Watch Series 'Behind the Wall: Bubba Wallace'
In 2018, leading up to the Daytona 500, Bubba Wallace was featured in a Facebook Watch series titled 'Behind the Wall: Bubba Wallace'. The series provided an inside look into his life and career as he prepared for the prestigious race.
July 23, 2019: Wallace Gets Richard Petty's Signature Tattooed
On July 23, 2019, Bubba Wallace initiated a challenge to get Richard Petty's autograph tattooed if a tweet received 43,000 retweets. The goal was met, and Wallace followed through, showcasing the bond between the driver and the racing legend.
October 5, 2019: Wallace's Altercation with Alex Bowman and Apology
On October 5, 2019, at the Charlotte Roval, Bubba Wallace was involved in an on-track incident with Alex Bowman, during which Wallace made an obscene gesture towards Bowman. After the race, Wallace splashed water on Bowman, leading NASCAR officials to address the altercation. While Wallace later apologized for those affected by the water splashing, he stood by his actions toward Bowman.
November 9, 2019: Wallace Fined and Penalized for Intentional Spin at Texas
On November 9, 2019, Bubba Wallace faced severe consequences for intentionally spinning his car at Texas Motor Speedway following a tire failure. NASCAR imposed a $50,000 fine and docked him 50 driver points for manipulating the competition.
2019: Wallace's Performance at the 2019 Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race and Watkins Glen
In 2019, Bubba Wallace showcased his racing prowess at the Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race by clinching victory in the second stage of the Monster Energy Open and securing a commendable fifth-place finish in the All-Star Race. Additionally, he made headlines at Watkins Glen when he spun Kyle Busch off the track during lap 61.
2019: Wallace Opens Up About Depression
In 2019, Bubba Wallace courageously shared his struggles with depression, raising awareness about mental health within the demanding world of motorsports. His openness sparked conversations and support from fellow drivers and fans.
2019: FBI Investigation Concludes Noose Incident Not a Hate Crime, Backlash Ensues
Following the discovery of the noose in Bubba Wallace's garage stall at Talladega, the FBI launched a thorough investigation. Their findings, released a day after the race, concluded that the incident was not a hate crime. The alleged noose was, in fact, a pull-down rope with a loop, resembling a hangman's knot, which had been present in that garage stall since the fall Talladega race in 2019. The FBI's determination ignited a wave of criticism directed at Wallace on social media, with some questioning his integrity and labeling the incident a "hoax." Wallace expressed relief that he wasn't specifically targeted but also voiced his frustration with the ensuing backlash.
May 2020: Wallace Becomes a Voice for Social Justice
In May 2020, following the murder of George Floyd, Bubba Wallace emerged as a prominent voice for social justice within NASCAR, advocating for racial equality and the Black Lives Matter movement.
June 8, 2020: Wallace Calls for Ban of Confederate Flag in NASCAR
On June 8, 2020, Bubba Wallace publicly called for NASCAR to ban the Confederate flag from all events. This call for action came amidst the Black Lives Matter movement and sparked significant debate within the sport.
June 10, 2020: NASCAR Bans Confederate Flag
On June 10, 2020, following Bubba Wallace's call for action and ongoing discussions, NASCAR officially banned the display of the Confederate flag at all its events, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in the sport.
June 21, 2020: Noose Found in Wallace's Garage Stall at Talladega, Drivers Show Solidarity
On June 21, 2020, a disturbing incident unfolded as a member of Bubba Wallace's racing team discovered what appeared to be a noose in his assigned garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway. NASCAR President Steve Phelps promptly informed Wallace, and the organization issued a strong condemnation, labeling the act as "heinous." In a show of unity and support, fellow drivers and crews came together to push Wallace's car to the front of the pit road before the GEICO 500 race.
June 25, 2020: NASCAR Releases Photo of Noose, Announces Findings and Actions
On June 25, 2020, NASCAR released a photo of a noose found in Bubba Wallace's garage stall. After an investigation, it was determined that the noose had been there since the previous year and was not intentionally targeting Wallace. NASCAR mandated sensitivity training and emphasized that Wallace and his team were not involved.
July 6, 2020: President Trump's Tweet Sparks Backlash and Support for Wallace
On July 6, 2020, President Donald Trump tweeted that Bubba Wallace should apologize for the noose incident, calling it a hoax. This statement sparked backlash and was refuted by Fox Sports, with evidence that NASCAR ratings had increased. Wallace received support from figures like Jimmie Johnson, Tyler Reddick, and LeBron James.
September 10, 2020: Wallace Announces Departure from Richard Petty Motorsports
Bubba Wallace made a significant announcement on September 10, 2020, revealing his decision to part ways with Richard Petty Motorsports at the end of the 2020 NASCAR season, concluding the season 22nd in the point standings.
September 21, 2020: Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin Form 23XI Racing with Wallace as Driver
In a groundbreaking move on September 21, 2020, basketball legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin teamed up to establish a new NASCAR team called 23XI Racing. Bubba Wallace was announced as the team's first driver, set to pilot the No. 23 car.
2020: Wallace's 2020 Season Featured in Netflix Series
The 2020 NASCAR season, a pivotal year for Bubba Wallace as he became more vocal about social justice issues, was prominently featured in the Netflix docu-series 'Race: Bubba Wallace'.
2020: Wallace Reunites with Crew Chief Baxter, Achieves Top Finish at Las Vegas
The 2020 NASCAR season saw Bubba Wallace reunite with his former Truck Series crew chief, Jerry Baxter. This reunion proved fruitful as Wallace achieved his best finish on a 1.5-mile track with a sixth-place result at the Pennzoil 400 in Las Vegas. He was ranked 18th in points when the season was put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Wallace Clarifies Stance on Faith After Incident with Michael McDowell
In 2020, following an on-track incident with Michael McDowell, Bubba Wallace clarified that his criticism of McDowell was not an attack on his Christian faith. Wallace emphasized the importance of respect, demonstrating his own Christian values.
2020: Wallace's Car Features Black Lives Matter Livery at Martinsville
In 2020, at the Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 500, Bubba Wallace's car featured a special Black Lives Matter paint scheme. The car, designed with input from Richard Petty, displayed black and white hands clasped together, the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag, and messages of peace and understanding. This powerful statement highlighted the need for social justice and equality.
2020: Wallace's Philanthropy and Awards Recognition
In 2020, Bubba Wallace's contributions to social justice and motorsports were recognized through various awards and his establishment of the Live to be Different Foundation. He received the National Motorsports Press Association's Pocono Spirit Award and the Comcast Community Champion of the Year award.
March 2021: Bubba Wallace's Foray into Dirt Track Racing
In March 2021, Bubba Wallace ventured into the world of dirt track racing, participating in the Pinty's Dirt Truck Race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Driving the No. 11 truck for Spencer Davis Motorsports, in partnership with Hattori Racing Enterprises, he finished a respectable 11th in the unique event.
July 30, 2021: Wallace and Amanda Carter Get Engaged
Bubba Wallace and Amanda Carter announced their engagement on July 30, 2021, solidifying their relationship and paving the way for their future together.
October 4, 2021: Wallace Makes History with First Cup Series Win at Talladega
On October 4, 2021, Bubba Wallace etched his name into NASCAR history by securing his maiden Cup Series victory at Talladega Superspeedway. This landmark achievement marked Wallace as the first African-American driver to win a Cup Series race since Wendell Scott's triumph in 1963. Additionally, Wallace's victory marked the first for a McDonald's-sponsored car since Jimmy Spencer's win in 1994.
2021: Wallace's 2021 Season Highlighted in Netflix Series
Bubba Wallace's 2021 season, which included his historic win at Talladega, was a key part of the Netflix docu-series 'Race: Bubba Wallace', offering viewers an inside look at his experiences on and off the track.
2021: Wallace Appears in Post Malone's 'Motley Crew' Music Video
Bubba Wallace, alongside Denny Hamlin, made a cameo appearance in the music video for Post Malone's 2021 song 'Motley Crew', merging the worlds of racing and music.
2021: Wallace's First Winless Season Since 2021
The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season marked the first winless season for Bubba Wallace since his victory at Talladega in 2021.
2021: Wallace Participates in Virtual Pro Bowl
Bubba Wallace participated in the virtual 2021 Pro Bowl on Madden NFL 21, showcasing his interest in other sports and his connection to the broader athletic community.
March 29, 2022: Wallace's Crew Chief Suspended, Rogers Takes Over
On March 29, 2022, Bubba Wallace's crew chief, Bootie Barker, was handed a four-race suspension due to a tire and wheel loss during the 2022 Texas Grand Prix at COTA. Dave Rogers stepped in as Wallace's interim crew chief for the races at Richmond, Martinsville, Bristol, and Talladega.
August 31, 2022: Wallace and Barker Switch to No. 45 Car for Remainder of Season
In a strategic move on August 31, 2022, Bubba Wallace and his crew chief, Bootie Barker, swapped rides within the 23XI Racing team. They transitioned to the No. 45 car for the remaining races of the season, aiming to contend for the owner's championship.
2022: Netflix Docu-Series 'Race: Bubba Wallace' Released
A six-part Netflix docu-series titled 'Race: Bubba Wallace' premiered in 2022, chronicling Wallace's journey in NASCAR, his activism, and his impact on the sport.
December 31, 2022: Wallace Marries Amanda Carter
Bubba Wallace married his longtime girlfriend, Amanda Carter, on December 31, 2022, marking a significant personal milestone in the driver's life.
2023: Wallace Achieves Career First: Qualifies for NASCAR Playoffs
The 2023 NASCAR season marked a significant milestone in Bubba Wallace's career as he qualified for the playoffs for the first time. Despite facing a winless season, a first since his 2021 Talladega victory, Wallace consistently improved his finishes, securing five top-five and ten top-ten results. His playoff run saw him advance to the Round of 12 but ultimately ended at the Charlotte Roval race.
2024: Wallace's Strong Start, Incident with Bowman, and Playoff Pursuit in 2024
Bubba Wallace commenced the 2024 NASCAR season with a bang, securing two fifth-place finishes in the first two races. Despite a subsequent dip in performance, he rebounded with a fourth-place finish at Martinsville. During the Chicago Street Race on July 7, an on-track altercation with Alex Bowman resulted in Wallace intentionally colliding with Bowman's car during the cool-down lap, leading to a $50,000 fine from NASCAR. At that point in the season, Wallace held the 17th position in the playoff standings.