Bubba Wallace, driver of the No. 23 23XI Racing Toyota, discusses his lack of speed and handling, which is keeping him out of the NASCAR playoff bubble.
Bubba Wallace, the rising star of NASCAR, finds himself on the cusp of the playoffs but acknowledges that his team is slightly behind in terms of speed and handling. Wallace, who sits 17th in the playoff standings and 45 points outside the cutoff line, expressed his frustration and determination to make the necessary improvements.
"We're just a little bit off on speed and handling," Wallace said. "We've been close, but we haven't been able to put it all together yet."
Bubba Wallace on the Brink of Playoffs: Speed and Handling Key to Success
Wallace's team has shown flashes of brilliance this season, including a victory at the prestigious Daytona 500. However, inconsistency has plagued their efforts, costing them valuable points. The driver admitted that they need to find more speed and improve their handling to challenge for the championship.
"We're working hard on it," Wallace said. "We're trying different things, and we're confident that we'll get there."
Bubba Wallace on the Brink of Playoffs: Speed and Handling Key to Success
Wallace's comments come amidst a controversial incident at the Chicago Street Course over the weekend. After being spun out by Alex Bowman, Wallace retaliated by slamming his car into the door of Bowman's No. 48 during the cooldown lap. The incident drew a $50,000 fine from NASCAR for violating member conduct code.
Bowman, who went on to win the race, expressed sympathy for Wallace's frustration but maintained that his retribution was excessive.
Bubba Wallace on the Brink of Playoffs: Speed and Handling Key to Success
"I understand why he was mad," Bowman said. "I ruined his day. But I don't think he should have been penalized."
Wallace defended his actions, arguing that Bowman's reckless driving cost him a shot at a top finish.
Bubba Wallace on the Brink of Playoffs: Speed and Handling Key to Success
"I have every right to be mad," Wallace said. "He ruined my race. I'm not going to let him get away with it."
Despite the controversy, Wallace remains focused on his goal of making the playoffs. He knows that it will be an uphill battle, but he is confident in his team's ability to overcome the challenges.
"We're going to keep fighting," Wallace said. "We're not going to give up. We're going to make the playoffs."
Wallace's determination and perseverance are a testament to his unwavering spirit. As the NASCAR season enters its final stretch, he and his team face a daunting task to secure a spot in the playoffs. But if they can find the speed and handling they need, anything is possible.
