Bubba Wallace Insider Criticizes Drivers Running Campaigns at North Wilkesboro by Giving Chase Elliott & Kasey Kahne Examples

The NASCAR All-Star Race is set to take place at the returning and revived North Wilkesboro Speedway, a 0.625-mile oval that hasn’t hosted a Cup race since 1996. With a revamped format for 2023, the event promises excitement and intense competition. However, not everyone is thrilled about certain aspects of the race, particularly the fan vote and drivers campaigning to secure their spots in the main event.

Bubba Wallace’s Spotter Criticizes Fan Vote System at North Wilkesboro

Bubba Wallace’s spotter, Freddie Kraft, took to Twitter to express his opinion on the matter. He tweeted, “Probably an unpopular take: Don’t campaign to win the fan vote. Race your way in. If you’re not fast enough to race your way in, why the hell would you even wanna be in the race?”

Kraft’s tweet raises an interesting point.

He suggests that drivers should focus on their performance on the track rather than relying on popularity contests to secure a spot in the All-Star Race. Instead of investing time and effort in campaigns, drivers should strive to qualify for the race based on their skills and results.

To support his argument, Kraft pointed out the examples of Chase Elliott and Kasey Kahne.

In the 19-year history of the fan vote, only two drivers have finished in the top 5. Kasey Kahne won in 2008, and Chase Elliott finished fifth in 2018. The average finish for the fan vote is 13th in a 20-22 car field.

These statistics highlight the limited success that drivers have had relying on the fan vote to secure a spot in the All-Star Race. It suggests that campaigning for votes may not be the most effective or fair way to determine participation in such a prestigious event.

The argument put forth by Wallace’s spotter challenges the current system and encourages drivers to earn their place in the race through their performance on the track. This perspective aligns with the core values of motorsport, where competition and skill are paramount.

WATCH THIS STORY: “Might as Well Stop Trying” – Frustrated Kyle Busch Makes Disheartening Confession Amid Unfortunate Result in Truck Series

NASCAR All-Star Race Weekend Format

Trending

Kyle Busch’s 2 Year Old Daughter’s Open Declaration of Chase Elliott as “Her Boyfriend” Has NASCAR Fans Melting

“It Ruined My Enjoyment” – Dale Earnhardt Jr Reveals His Disdain From Manufacturers Influencing and Compromising His Race

Dale Jr Claims Chevy’s $400,000 Loss for Martinsville Manipulation Not Enough to Stop It’s Embarrassing Tactics

Denny Hamlin Warns of Consequences Owing to Flawed Playoff Structure Amidst Joey Logano’s Championship Hunt

Dale Earnhardt Jr Excites His Fans as He Finally Reveals His Racing Plans After Seemingly Taking a Sabbatical

A total of 21 drivers have already secured their spots in the main event. They have earned their positions through various means, including winning a race in the 2022-2023 season, winning the all-star race before, or being a Cup title holder. Notable drivers such as Kyle Busch, Chase Elliott, and Kevin Harvick are among those who have earned automatic entry.

For the remaining drivers who haven’t secured automatic entry, there is still a chance to race their way into the main event through the Open. The Open consists of 16 drivers who will compete in a 100-lap race, with the top two finishers earning a spot in the all-star race. Additionally, one driver will be selected through a fan vote, except for four drivers who did not participate in the Daytona 500, Josh Berry, Josh Bilicki, Ryan Newman and JJ Yeley.

Finally, the main event will commence, featuring a 200-lap race where all laps count. Teams will have four sets of sticker tires at their disposal, with one set allowed to be used after the competition caution around Lap 100.

The 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race promises to be a thrilling and action-packed event, bringing together the best drivers in the sport for a memorable weekend at the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway.

READ MORE: Days Ahead of Most-Anticipated All-Star Race, Bizarre Practice Incident Leaves NASCAR Fans Distressed