Bubba Wallace in Command Late in Stage 2 After Strategy Shuffle
The second stage of today’s race has been anything but predictable. Pit strategies and cautions have jumbled the running order several times, but when the dust settled late in Stage 2, Bubba Wallace emerged with a firm grip on the lead.
Wallace, driving the No. 23 for 23XI Racing, has built a 3.5-second advantage over Joey Logano, showing both speed and composure as the field resets ahead of the final stage. The margin is significant given how tightly packed the field had been earlier, and it underscores Wallace’s ability to capitalize on clean air and track position when it matters.
Crew chief adjustments and well-timed stops have clearly paid off. While others cycled through differing fuel windows and tire calls, Wallace’s team executed flawlessly, putting their driver in prime position as the laps tick down toward the Stage 2 finish.
For Joey Logano, running in second, the task will be closing the gap before the green-checkered flag waves. With Stage 3 looming—and playoff points on the line—teams will be evaluating whether to pit early, save tires, or gamble on track position.
Wallace’s calm control at the front signals a growing confidence in his 23XI group, who know momentum at this stage of the race can translate into a push for the win. If he can maintain pace and avoid late-stage drama, Wallace could lock in critical stage points and set himself up as a favorite for victory.
