Bubba Wallace discusses his first NASCAR Cup Series playoff berth

Bubba Wallace talks about making the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs with 23XI Racing for the first time in his career.

[autotag]Bubba Wallace[/autotag] knew it was going to be a stressful weekend at Daytona International Speedway as he sat as the last driver in the 2023 NASCAR playoffs. Fortunately for Wallace and the No. 23 team, everything worked out as Ty Gibbs and Daniel Suarez didn’t earn enough points while there was not a new winner.

Wallace clinched his first NASCAR Cup Series playoff berth as a driver and there is reason for celebration. The driver of the No. 23 car was notably congratulated by 23XI Racing co-owner and NBA legend Michael Jordan as both of the organization’s entries secured spots. Following the event, Wallace talked about making his first playoff appearance as a driver.

“That was the most stressed but also the most locked-in I’ve ever been,” Wallace said. “Knowing that (Daytona) is mostly out of your control, I just tried to focus on doing the things that I could do. Missing that wreck was massive. Appreciate (spotter Freddie Kraft). He’s one of the best up on the roof. Gets us through that a lot. That’s what helps our resume here with the speedway stuff. Proud to be locked into the playoffs. (23XI Racing), third year in, getting both cars in the playoffs.”

“We’ve gone through a lot of trials and tribulations. So proud of the effort we put in. No matter how much we set ourselves back, we know that we have a kick-ass group and can bounce back from everything. My wife puts up with me through the stressful times. I wasn’t myself. Sorry, babe. I was focused trying to get us in and pay for this house that you wanted (laughter).”

Now, Wallace will look forward to the Round of 16 as it sets up well for him. Darlington Raceway is up first for NASCAR; however, Kansas Speedway will be the second race and the 23XI Racing driver won at the venue last season. Wallace may face long odds for the championship but anything can happen at this time of the season.

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