BREAKING: Bubba Wallace Receives Threatening Messages After Sharing Video of 98-Year-Old Veteran Driving Tank Over Tesla in Protest Against Elon Musk
NASCAR star Bubba Wallace has found himself at the center of a fierce social media storm after sharing a viral video featuring a 98-year-old World War II veteran driving a tank over a Tesla vehicle in a bold protest against billionaire Elon Musk. The video, intended to spotlight concerns over Musk’s political influence, has sparked intense debate and led to Wallace receiving threatening messages, exposing the deep divisions Musk’s controversial persona continues to provoke.
The Viral Protest That Divides
The video shows Ken Turner, a 98-year-old British WWII veteran and former Royal Tank Regiment member, crushing a Tesla Model S with a vintage Sherman tank. The protest, organized by the activist group Led by Donkeys on Victory in Europe (VE) Day, symbolizes resistance against what Turner and others see as Musk’s support for far-right movements in Europe. Turner’s poignant words, “I’m old enough to have seen fascism the first time around; now it’s coming back,” resonated with many but also ignited backlash from Musk supporters.
Bubba Wallace’s Support and Backlash
Wallace shared the video on his social media platforms to amplify the veteran’s message and raise awareness about the perceived dangers of Musk’s political stance. However, this act has provoked a wave of hostility from Musk loyalists and Tesla enthusiasts who view the protest as disrespectful and politically charged.
Since sharing the video, Wallace has reportedly been targeted with threatening messages, highlighting the toxic and polarized environment surrounding debates about Musk’s influence and the intersection of sports, politics, and activism.
Context: Wallace’s History of Facing Threats
Bubba Wallace is no stranger to receiving threats and hate, having previously been at the center of a national conversation about racism in NASCAR after a noose was found in his garage stall in 2020. His courage in confronting social issues has made him a trailblazer but also a frequent target of hostility and threats1.
Social Media Divided: Support and Condemnation
The incident has sharply divided social media users. Many praise Wallace’s bravery and willingness to use his platform to highlight important issues, viewing it as a necessary stand against rising authoritarianism. Others condemn the stunt as disrespectful to Musk, Tesla owners, and veterans’ legacies.
Hashtags like #TankOverTesla and #StandWithBubba have trended, fueling passionate discussions about free speech, political activism, and the responsibilities of public figures.
The Bigger Picture: Athletes, Activism, and Risks
Wallace’s experience underscores the risks athletes face when engaging in politically charged issues, especially involving polarizing figures like Elon Musk. It also reflects broader societal tensions over technology, politics, and the legacy of historical struggles against fascism.
This breaking story is sparking intense conversations nationwide. Share your thoughts, join the debate, and watch how the clash between veterans, athletes, and billionaire power unfolds in the public eye.
