Boss Denny Hamlin Filled With Emotion as Driver Bubba Wallace’s Spotter Shares His Fathers Infamous Moments Hours After His Demise

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the racing community mourns the loss of a true legend on and off the track. On Saturday morning, Tom Kraft, affectionately known as ‘TK’, succumbed to complications from a heart attack he suffered earlier in the week. The news was shared by his son, Freddie Kraft, a long-time member of the 23XI Racing team owned by Denny Hamlin. 

Freddie Kraft is well-known for his charismatic personality and co-hosting the popular podcast “Door, Bumper, Clear.” Tom Kraft’s legacy is filled with triumphs, championships, and a spirit of unselfishness that touched the lives of many.

Denny Hamlin’s Special Connection to the Late Tom Kraft

In a heartwarming yet cryptic social media post, Freddie Kraft, the trusted spotter of NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace, has shared a relic from the past that has racing fans buzzing with curiosity.

The post in question is a Penalty Notice, dated May 1996, belonging to Kraft’s late father. What makes this seemingly unassuming piece of history so intriguing is the handwritten phrase in the “Rules Infraction” section: “Action Detrimental to auto racing.” 

Kraft, a familiar face within the racing community, posted the image on his social media with an enigmatic caption: “No wonder dad liked Denny so much.” Denny Hamlin responded to the post with a stirring heart emoji. 

As Freddie Kraft misses the NASCAR Cup race to be with his family during this challenging time, the racing community has come together to honor the memory of Tom Kraft. In a gesture of camaraderie, Tyler Reddick’s spotter, Nick Payne, led his expertise on Saturday, taking on the duties for Bubba Wallace’s #23 Toyota at Richmond. Chase Elliott’s spotter for road courses, Trey Poole, also ensured a seamless race day for the #23 Toyota team.

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Who was this racing legend, and how did 23XI Racing pay tribute to his legacy?

Tom Kraft: A Riverhead Raceway Icon

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Freddie Kraft, renowned as Bubba Wallace’s spotter, took to social media to share the tragic news of his father’s passing. With a simple Facebook post, he announced that Tom Kraft had left this world, leaving behind a void that would not be easily filled. Freddie expressed the family’s need for time to cope with the sorrow, and friends and fans rallied around them, offering support during this difficult period.

To many, Tom Kraft was more than just a spotter or a racing enthusiast. He was a legend in his own right, with a storied history at Riverhead Raceway. Throughout his illustrious career, as per racedayct.com, he secured three track championships and an impressive 29 career wins, landing him fifth on the track’s win list. His achievements earned him a well-deserved place on the Cromarty Wall of Champions and induction into the Suffolk Association of Figure Eight Racing Hall of Fame.

23XI Racing posted a beautiful video on Twitter with the message, “We love you @FreddieKraft. This one is for you! #ForwardTogether.” The bond between Bubba Wallace, Denny Hamlin, and Tommy Kraft ran deep. This was evident in the driver’s trust in his fallen friend during the race. 

Even after his driving days ended, Tom Kraft’s impact on the racing community endured. Riverhead Raceway management recognized his wealth of experience and tapped him to join the NASCAR officiating team. A fixture at the turn four entrance gate, he’d sport his NASCAR radio slightly askew on his head, ready to ensure a fair and safe race. Known for his genuine care for drivers, Tom would approach them with wise counsel after a skirmish, preventing potential clashes and diffusing tensions.

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As the engines roar and the checkered flags wave, racers, and fans will undoubtedly look up to the sky, knowing that Tom Kraft, their beloved racing hero, and guiding light, will be watching over them. Rest in Peace, “TK”, and thank you for a lifetime of dedication and cherished memories.