In a deeply emotional and revealing interview, Bubba Wallace, one of NASCAR’s most prominent and controversial figures, opened up about the mental breakdown that nearly led him to quit racing and how it ultimately became the driving force behind 23XI Racing’s meteoric rise. Wallace’s story is one of struggle, perseverance, and redemption — and the 2025 season will likely be defined by his remarkable journey from the depths of despair to the pinnacle of success.

A Dark Period in Bubba’s Life

It was a period that few people saw coming. Despite the world watching as Wallace made history by becoming the first African-American driver to win a Cup Series race in nearly 50 years, the immense pressure of racing at the sport’s highest level was starting to take its toll.

Wallace admitted that in the months leading up to his breakout victory, he was mentally hitting rock bottom.

“I wasn’t crazy,” Wallace said, reflecting on that dark time. “But everyone around me thought I was losing it. It was like I couldn’t escape it, the noise. The expectations. The haters.”

The relentless media scrutiny, the pressure of being a pioneer in NASCAR, and the growing expectations to deliver as part of 23XI Racing, a team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, pushed Wallace to his limits. Behind the smiles and interviews, Wallace was silently battling personal demons.

The Breaking Point

“I remember one night, I just couldn’t take it anymore,” Wallace revealed, his voice cracking. “I was on the edge. I thought about quitting. I thought about walking away from everything — the sport, the team, all of it.”

Wallace shared how close he came to walking away from NASCAR altogether. He was mentally exhausted, burned out by the pressure and public criticism. But a moment of clarity came when he realized he had the power to either let it defeat him or turn it into a victory.

“That’s when I hit rock bottom,” he continued. “But in that moment, I found myself again. I realized I had a choice: let the weight of everything crush me or use it to fuel my comeback.”

A New Focus: The Rise of 23XI Racing

Determined to prove the doubters wrong, Wallace refocused on what mattered most — the love of racing. With Denny Hamlin’s guidance and Michael Jordan’s unwavering support, Wallace was able to rebuild his confidence and mental fortitude. His renewed focus began to show in his performance on the track, culminating in a stunning win at Talladega, which propelled 23XI Racing into the spotlight.

“The win wasn’t just for me, it was for everyone who believed in me and helped me through that tough time,” Wallace said. “Denny, Michael, and the whole team — they never gave up on me, even when I thought about giving up on myself.”

Overcoming the Struggles

Wallace’s transformation didn’t happen overnight, but it was nothing short of remarkable. As the 2025 NASCAR season kicked off, Wallace’s newfound mental strength became the backbone of 23XI Racing’s rise to prominence.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to be kind to myself,” he admitted. “I was so hard on myself, but now I know it’s okay to not be perfect. It’s about finding balance — and I’m finding that balance now.”

His journey wasn’t just personal growth; it was also a huge step for 23XI Racing, which saw its success soar with Wallace at the wheel. His leadership on and off the track helped the team secure multiple top-10 finishes and increase fan support across the nation.

The Future of Bubba Wallace and 23XI

With the team’s growing success and Wallace’s new sense of peace, there’s a palpable optimism around the 23XI Racing garage. Wallace’s story has inspired countless fans and fellow drivers alike, showing that overcoming personal struggles can lead to unparalleled strength and success.

Wallace, now in his prime, is poised to take 23XI Racing to the next level in 2025 and beyond. His journey from near-quitting to becoming a contender is not only a testament to his resilience but also a reminder of the power of mental health awareness in sports.

“We’ve just scratched the surface,” Wallace concluded, smiling. “We’ve got a long way to go, but I’m ready for it.”

As for NASCAR’s new generation of stars, Bubba Wallace’s mental and emotional comeback will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most significant stories in the sport’s history.