“I’m Still… Frustrated”: Bubba Wallace Left Fuming as Owner Denny Hamlin Outpaces #23 Despite Red-Hot Form
In a dramatic twist of NASCAR rivalry and team dynamics, Bubba Wallace, driver of the #23 23XI Racing Toyota, has openly expressed frustration after being outperformed by his own team co-owner, Denny Hamlin, despite Wallace’s recent stellar performances. The tension highlights the unique challenges of competing against a boss who also dominates the track.
Wallace’s Red-Hot Streak Meets Hamlin’s Consistency
Wallace, enjoying one of his strongest seasons to date, has racked up multiple top-5 finishes and a recent victory at Kansas Speedway, positioning him as a playoff contender. However, his momentum has been overshadowed by Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner and co-owner of 23XI Racing, who continues to outshine him. Hamlin, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, secured his third win of the season at Dover, while Wallace finished sixth—a solid result but one that deepened his irritation.
The Frustration Boils Over
“I’m still… frustrated,” Wallace admitted in a post-race interview, trailing off with a mix of resignation and determination. “We’re executing at a high level, but when you see the #11 [Hamlin] up there every week, it’s a reminder we’ve got more work to do.” His comments reflect the complex reality of racing under an owner who remains a fierce competitor, blurring lines between mentorship and rivalry.
Hamlin’s Dual Role: Owner and Rival
Hamlin, who co-founded 23XI Racing with NBA legend Michael Jordan in 2021, balances team ownership with his driving career. While he provides input on Wallace’s car setup and strategy, his primary focus remains on winning for JGR. “Bubba’s pushing hard, and that’s what we want,” Hamlin remarked. “But on track, I’m here to beat everyone—even my own guys.” This duality raises questions about resource sharing and whether Hamlin’s experience grants him an edge Wallace can’t yet match.
Behind the Numbers
Statistically, Hamlin’s dominance is clear: he leads Wallace in wins (3 to 1), top-5s (7 to 4), and playoff points. Yet Wallace’s 2023 campaign marks his most consistent year, sitting 10th in standings—a career best. The gap underscores the fine margins between elite performance and greatness in NASCAR.
Team Tensions or Healthy Competition?
The situation has sparked debate among fans. Some sympathize with Wallace, arguing Hamlin’s split focus creates an uneven playing field. Others believe Wallace’s frustration is a natural byproduct of his growth. “This fire is what Bubba needs,” tweeted a NASCAR analyst. “If he channels it, he’ll close the gap.”
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Wallace harnesses his discontent. With critical races like the Coca-Cola 600 approaching, the #23 team aims to refine pit strategies and qualifying pace. Meanwhile, Hamlin shows no signs of slowing, eyeing a championship run. Their evolving dynamic—a blend of mentorship, ownership, and rivalry—adds a compelling layer to NASCAR’s 2023 narrative.
For Wallace, the path forward is clear: convert frustration into fuel. “We’re close,” he vowed. “Soon, it’ll be our turn.” Whether that turn comes at Hamlin’s expense remains one of the season’s most intriguing subplots.
