Bubba Wallace spoke to reporters ahead of the September 8 race in Atlanta, addressing his disappointment after failing to qualify for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. The 23XI Racing driver was candid about his frustrations, not only with missing the postseason but also with the latest developments in charter negotiations.
Wallace’s team, along with Front Row Motorsports, was one of two organizations that chose not to sign the deal before NASCAR’s deadline.
My process has been closely tied to the charter agreements,” Wallace explained to the media. “It’s frustrating to see where things stand because it affects my life, my livelihood, and everything regarding my future moving forward.
Bubba Wallace Caught in Middle of Latest Dramatic Developments
Bubba Wallace being asked about his contract situation and addressing it happened a little over an hour after 23XI Racing put out a statement revealing why the organization had not signed the charter deal before the deadline.
“23XI decided to not meet a NASCAR-imposed deadline last night to sign Charter agreements for its two cars for 2025-2031,” the statement read. “23XI’s position, as stated in a letter to NASCAR, is that we did not have an opportunity to fairly bargain for a new Charter contract. We notified NASCAR what issues needed to be addressed, in writing, at the deadline.
We are eager to engage in constructive discussions with NASCAR to address these issues and move forward toward a fair resolution, while strengthening the sport we all love. At 23XI Racing, we remain committed to competing at the highest level, and we firmly believe that NASCAR should operate with fair and equitable practices.
Wallace Reflects on Success at 23XI Racing
Though disappointed by missing the playoffs and the uncertainty surrounding his contract, Wallace expressed excitement for Tyler Reddick and optimism about the team’s future.
“Setting aside the frustration for a moment, I’m pumped and excited about what lies ahead, assuming everything works out,” Wallace said. “Winning a regular-season championship in just four years as a team is huge. It’s about having the right people in place, and bringing in Tyler—I knew from day one he’d be fast, competitive, and capable of getting the job done.
“From the outside, it’s tough. But at the same time, I’m genuinely happy for the team. I’m not just saying that—it’s great to see how everyone has come together and worked hard to get to this point and build fast cars. Every track we show up at, you can count on the 23 or the 45 to be competitive. As a driver, that’s all you can ask for.
“It’s exciting to feel the pressure each weekend, knowing the car is capable of winning. I just need to make sure I deliver, and obviously, I’ve got to do a better job of that.”
If Wallace can step up his game, he could play spoiler during the playoffs. It’s not the position he wanted to be in, but neither did Kyle Busch, Chris Buescher, or Ross Chastain. And you can bet they’ll all be looking to make their mark over the next 10 races.
