NASCAR fans are abuzz with speculation about a rumored past relationship between 23XI Racing star Bubba Wallace and former NASCAR driver Hailie Deegan before Wallace’s marriage to Amanda Carter. The whispers, trending on X, have reignited interest in Wallace’s personal life amid his standout 2025 season.
A Rumor That Caught Fire
The speculation began when fans on X pointed to old photos and interactions between Wallace and Deegan, who raced in NASCAR’s Truck and Xfinity Series before transitioning to Indy NXT in 2025. Posts under #BubbaHailie highlight moments from 2018-2019 events, where the two were seen chatting, fueling theories of a brief romance. “Did Bubba and Hailie date before Amanda?” one fan posted, sparking thousands of replies.
No concrete evidence supports the rumor, and neither Wallace nor Deegan has commented. Wallace, who married Amanda Carter in 2022, has been open about their high school connection and 2015 reconnection, leaving little room for the timeline fans suggest.
Why Fans Are Talking
Wallace’s high-profile status, bolstered by his $2 million homeless initiative and youth racing academy announcement for 2026, keeps him in the spotlight. Deegan, now with HMD Motorsports, remains a motorsport figure, recently competing in the Freedom 500. Their shared NASCAR history makes the rumor plausible to some, though it’s largely speculative.
Community Reaction
In Charlotte, home of 23XI Racing, fans at local spots like the Speed Street Café dismiss the gossip, focusing on Wallace’s racing. “Bubba’s all about Amanda and Becks now,” said fan Lisa Grant, referencing Wallace’s son. On X, supporters urge respect for his family, while others enjoy the nostalgia of NASCAR’s past.
Moving Forward
As Wallace prepares for the 2025 playoffs with a career-best season, the rumor serves as a distraction from his on-track success and off-track philanthropy. Deegan, focused on Indy NXT, is unlikely to address the chatter. For now, the #BubbaHailie buzz remains a fan-driven story, adding intrigue to NASCAR’s off-season.