Bubba Wallace has been making quite a splash in the NASCAR community since joining the circuit earlier this year. And Sunday‘s incident between Wallace and Aric Almirola is just another example of the unique brand of “interaction“ NASCAR fans have come to expect from the 26–year–old driver.
The incident began when Wallace allegedly flipped off Almirola during a race at the Kentucky Motor Speedway. Almirola asked Wallace why he had done so, and according to reports, Wallace taunted him in response. Angered by Wallace‘s words, Almirola then proceeded to shove the young driver, an action he was later fined for.
Bubba Wallace and Aric Almirola on the pit road shove. pic.twitter.com/QxUIq6huQp
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) May 30, 2023
Wallace quickly dubbed the incident “passion,” and proclaimed Almirola was “walking around with two faces.” Wallace is no stranger to stirring up controversy; in the past he caused a stir when he called for NASCAR to “Handle It“ in an effort to help achieve equality.
Despite his polarizing nature, Wallace has seemingly taken it upon himself to make NASCAR more interesting, creating a flurry of controversies that keep racing fans engaged and debates raging around water coolers around the country.
While some may deem his incident with Almirola tasteless, Wallace is certainly taking advantage of what many consider to be NASCAR‘s dying interest. While the sport is still popular among its dedicated fan base, it has struggled to attract a younger audience – something Wallace is eager to change.
Whether one agrees with Wallace‘s methods of gaining attention is irrelevant; it‘s clear his point of view is having an impact on NASCAR. His behavior is part of his style – it‘s unorthodox, it‘s not always well–received, but it is certainly entertaining.
Wallace‘s antics may just be the spark the NASCAR community needs to draw in a larger, younger audience. While criticism of his behavior is likely to be an ongoing theme, the impact he has made is undeniable.
Wallace has become a magnetic force in the world of NASCAR. He‘s proving that even in the world of professional racing, stunts and high drama can be successful – if you know how to do it right.
Bubba Wallace said the exchange with Aric Almirola was just passion and he wasn’t surprised at Almirola’s shove: “When you walk around with two faces, that’s what you get.” pic.twitter.com/Z1kkHIjxCE
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 30, 2023
