The NASCAR Cup Series races at Charlotte Motor Speedway have always been a theater of not just high-speed racing action, but also off-track drama. One such tense situation arose due to an escalation when rain temporarily suspended Monday’s race.
Amid this unexpected interlude, an argument flared between Bubba Wallace and the driver from Tony Stewart‘s Cup Series team. The argument, possibly originating from an on-track dispute, escalated rapidly. In a sudden turn of events, Stewart’s driver physically confronted Wallace, before security could step in to quell the situation.
Tony Stewart’s driver gets into an altercation with Bubba Wallace
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As the drivers awaited the green light to resume racing, tension brewed between the adversaries, Bubba Wallace and Aric Almirola. Captured in a somewhat fuzzy video that found its way onto social media, a verbal exchange between the two was clearly visible.
The footage showed Wallace, seemingly attempting to disengage and walk away. However, the pilot of the #10 Mustang, Almirola, impulsively pushed him, effectively escalating the situation. It almost reminded spectators of last season’s shoving incident involving Wallace and Kyle Larson in Las Vegas—albeit with Wallace’s role reversed.
A track official hastily intervened, prying the pair apart as their verbal exchange threatened to spiral into a physical confrontation. Interestingly, it seemed like it was the same security personnel that had stopped the fight between Ross Chastain and Noah Gragson a few weeks ago.
Aric Almirola and Bubba Wallace on pit road during the rain delay. 👀 pic.twitter.com/g5ycyRRuXz
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) May 29, 2023
Amid the tumult, Wallace was seen gesturing emphatically towards Almirola, his finger pointed squarely at Almirola’s chest, as they continued to exchange heated words.
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What happened between the two drivers?
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With no significant history of on-track conflict, the latest incident surprised many. Within the buzzing media center, journalists scrutinized the video footage, dissecting the tangle between the two drivers during the live race. It revealed Wallace executing an aggressive maneuver, slicing sharply in front of Almirola, which seemed to result in contact.
Speculations arose that this might have been the reason for the pair to have confronted each other. Moreover, returning the audacious move, Almirola retaliated. He nudged Wallace just as the race was transitioning to a caution phase due to incoming rain.
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This recent incident has certainly added a new dimension to their on-track dynamics. As the NASCAR community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this budding rivalry, one can’t help but wonder: Will this be the start of a new on-track feud in the world of NASCAR? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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